Milwaukee Police Can't Ask for SS Numbers

It's not often that cases of police brutality end on a promising note.

But over a year after illegally harassing Matt Nelson, the Milwaukee Police Department sent word to all of its officers -- and the public -- that people do not have to give their Social Security numbers to police officers.

It may seem like a small victory, but it's huge considering its national implications. Several immigrant rights organizations have reported that cops stop and ask people -- most of whom just happen to look Latino -- for their Social Security numbers. Those confrontations have often lead to arrests, detentions, and deportations.

Back in April of 2008, WireTap reported that Nelson, a long time contributor, had been stopped by a Milwaukee police officer and asked for his Social Security number. When he refused, the officer threatened to arrest him.

At the time, WireTap reported on a number of ways that readers could protect their rights.

Meanwhile, Nelson worked with two organizations he co-founded, the Milwaukee Police Accountability Coalition and the Freedom Now Collaborative, continuing his fight against the Milwaukee police department. His argument was clear: It's illegal for an officer to ask for anyone's Social Security number.

There's still no word on whether disciplinary action was taken against the officer in Nelson's case.

According to findings from the Police and Fire Commission, "social security numbers have usefulness for municipal law enforcement in very limited circumstances."

Thanks to the hard work of folks and organizers in Wisconsin, they've made good headway on immigration issues lately.

Jamilah King is WireTap's associate editor.