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WUWM & MPTV Special SeriesWhy are so many Wisconsinites behind bars?And, what are the costs?In the 2010 Census, Wisconsin had the highest percentage of incarcerated black men in the nation. One out of every eight black men of working age is behind bars. In Milwaukee County, more than half of African American men in their thirties have served time in prison.Over the course of six months, WUWM and MPTV explored Wisconsin's high rate of black male incarceration, through expert analysis and personal stories.Why is the rate so high?How does imprisonment affect the men and their futures, as well as their families, neighborhoods and the region's economy?What are possible solutions?Contribute Your IdeasDo you have questions you'd like to have answered? Stories you'd like to share? Please share your questions and comments with us.

Study: Wisconsin Far and Away Leads Nation in Black Male Incarceration

WUWM 89.7 FM

Published April 21, 2013 at 3:42 PM CDT

Milwaukee County Secure Detention Facility

The 2010 Census informed Wisconsin that it had the highest rate of black male incarceration in the country – well over 12 percent. Now a new examination of the numbers puts Wisconsin not only at the top - but far ahead of all other states when it comes to sending black men to prison.

The findings stunned John Pawasarat, director of UWM’s Employment and Training Institute – it reviewed the figures. They show that of all black men in Milwaukee County in their 30s, more than half have served time.

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