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GTC President Authorized Mass Employee Payouts Weeks Before Stepping Down

Ritu Raju (D) – President, Gateway Technical College KENOSHA, Wis. – Just weeks before her planned departure, Gateway Technical College President Dr. Ritu Raju authorized a large-scale payout to all regular employees—an expenditure some estimated could cost taxpayers between $1 million and $2 million. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

Salem Lakes Administrator Leaving Amid Scandals—Board Still Signals Support for Contract Renewal

SALEM LAKES, Wis. – Cassandra Hiller, the embattled Village Administrator of Salem Lakes, is preparing to leave her position after a tenure filled with controversy, public backlash, and strained government relations. But in a move that has left many residents baffled, Village officials—including President Rita Bucur—reportedly knew she was planning to depart and still expressed support for renewing her contract. Hiller has not formally announced her resignation to the public or the full Village Board. However, several board members, including Bucur, are believed to have been aware of her intentions but chose not to inform taxpayers. Her updated LinkedIn profile confirms she is “open to work” and seeking new full-time executive positions, with a flexible start date and interest in roles across Wisconsin and Illinois. Trustee Pete Poli—the board’s lone

Extra Prosecutors, Tax Cuts, and Dunes Protection: What Kenosha Gets in the New State Budget

MADISON, Wis. – The recently signed 2025–27 Wisconsin state budget includes several key wins for Kenosha County—ranging from added muscle in the District Attorney’s Office to millions in environmental preservation and taxpayer relief. State Rep. Amanda Nedweski (R–Pleasant Prairie) touted the package as a hard-fought, Republican-led effort that delivers tax cuts, education investments, UW System reforms, and funding for local priorities long championed by her office. “This budget puts Wisconsin families first,” said Nedweski, who played a central role in securing major provisions for Kenosha County. “We delivered a $1.5 billion tax cut, reformed the bloated UW System, and protected one of our county’s most cherished natural areas—without new taxpayer spending.” Prosecutor Positions a “Critical Investment in Law and Order” Among the most impactful wins for Kenosha is the addition

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Racine County Sheriff’s Deputy Placed on Leave Again After Second Domestic Incident

Emil J. Ortiz, 41, of Somers, WI(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) SOMERS, Wis. — A Racine County Sheriff’s Deputy who was previously arrested in April for an alleged drunken domestic assault is once again on leave after a second domestic disturbance was reported at his home in Somers. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

Salem Lakes Administrator Leaving Amid Scandals—Board Still Signals Support for Contract Renewal

SALEM LAKES, Wis. – Cassandra Hiller, the embattled Village Administrator of Salem Lakes, is preparing to leave her position after a tenure filled with controversy, public backlash, and strained government relations. But in a move that has left many residents baffled, Village officials—including President Rita Bucur—reportedly knew she was planning to depart and still expressed support for renewing her contract. Hiller has not formally announced her resignation to the public or the full Village Board. However, several board members, including Bucur, are believed to have been aware of her intentions but chose not to inform taxpayers. Her updated LinkedIn profile confirms she is “open to work” and seeking new full-time executive positions, with a flexible start date and interest in roles across Wisconsin and Illinois. Trustee Pete Poli—the board’s lone

Extra Prosecutors, Tax Cuts, and Dunes Protection: What Kenosha Gets in the New State Budget

MADISON, Wis. – The recently signed 2025–27 Wisconsin state budget includes several key wins for Kenosha County—ranging from added muscle in the District Attorney’s Office to millions in environmental preservation and taxpayer relief. State Rep. Amanda Nedweski (R–Pleasant Prairie) touted the package as a hard-fought, Republican-led effort that delivers tax cuts, education investments, UW System reforms, and funding for local priorities long championed by her office. “This budget puts Wisconsin families first,” said Nedweski, who played a central role in securing major provisions for Kenosha County. “We delivered a $1.5 billion tax cut, reformed the bloated UW System, and protected one of our county’s most cherished natural areas—without new taxpayer spending.” Prosecutor Positions a “Critical Investment in Law and Order” Among the most impactful wins for Kenosha is the addition

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Man Faces New Felony Charges Including Possession of Child Pornography, Escape

Jeremy D. Walker, 34, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA, Wis. – A 34-year-old Kenosha man with a prior felony conviction is facing four new criminal charges after authorities allege he fled from police during a probation check and was later found in possession of child pornography. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Man Charged with Possessing Image of Naked Child; $10,000 Bail Set

Thomas P. Moffat, 62, of Salem Lakes(Kenosha County Sheriff) SALEM LAKES, Wis. – A 62-year-old Salem Lakes man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he possessed a sexually explicit image of a naked child on his cell phone. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

Steil Votes for Bill to Cut Taxes, Strengthen Border, and Protect Seniors

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Bryan Steil (R-Wis.) cast a key vote this week in favor of H.R. 1, sweeping legislation aimed at reducing costs for families, delivering tax relief to seniors, and bolstering border security. The bill, which passed both chambers of Congress, now heads to President Trump for signature. “This bill is a win for Wisconsin workers, families, and seniors,” said Steil in a statement Wednesday. “The bill prioritizes American families over illegal immigrants, delivers a $6,000 tax cut for seniors, implements work requirements for able-bodied adults, invests in securing our border, and encourages and rewards hard work with no tax on tips and overtime.” Among the major provisions of the bill: . Steil emphasized that the legislation does not reduce Social Security or Medicare benefits, a concern often

Another Judge Steps Aside in Vanderzee Murder Case, Citing Past Contact with Defendant

KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — Yet another twist unfolded in the high-profile Vanderzee murder case when Judge Jason Rossell formally recused himself on June 24, citing prior contact with one of the defendants during his time as a prosecutor. According to the court record, Rossell stepped down from presiding over the case due to “prior contact with the defendant as an ADA.” Rossell served a brief stint as an Assistant District Attorney in Kenosha County before being appointed to the bench more than a decade ago. Rossell is the second judge to exit the case. Judge Angelina Gabriele recused herself earlier, acknowledging that she had knowledge of the case from her time as Deputy District Attorney under former DA Michael Graveley, whose administration declined to bring charges. Gabriele had previously scheduled

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Third Arrest in Less Than a Month for Kenosha Man Accused of Repeatedly Violating Court Orders

Ryan M. Phillips, 40, of Kenosha in Court(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA, Wis. – A 40-year-old Kenosha man who already faced charges in two felony cases was arrested for a third time in just over three weeks—this time for allegedly violating a domestic abuse no-contact order and making illegal jailhouse calls to the victim. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Mother Accused of Threatening Officers, Neglecting Children at Pool While Allegedly Intoxicated

Lauren M. Leipzig, 37, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff) KENOSHA, Wis. – A Kenosha woman is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges after allegedly passing out at a public pool while responsible for three young children, including her own, and later threatening to have police officers killed. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Kenosha Inmate Charged Again After Second Alleged Jail Assault

Kristina Faith Sargeant, 28, of Kenosha In Court(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA, Wis. – A Kenosha County Jail inmate already facing felony charges for a previous cell block assault has been charged again—this time for allegedly striking a different inmate in another altercation inside the jail. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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City Employee Who Stole Rebate Funds Sentenced to 45 Days in Jail

Jamie D. Watkins, 54, of Kenosha and Defense Attorney Terry Rose In Court Today(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA, Wis. – A former City of Kenosha arborist who admitted to stealing rebate checks from the city’s Parks Department was sentenced to 45 days in jail Wednesday by Judge Gerad Dougvillo, who called the theft “a betrayal of public trust.” You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Teen Previously Convicted in School Shooting Case Faces New Felony Gun Charge

Jason Isom Jr., 18, of Kenosha(Kenosha Sheriff) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha teenager who was previously adjudicated delinquent in connection with a 2022 shooting near Frank Elementary School is now facing five new criminal charges, including felony possession of a firearm, after police say he was caught with a loaded 9mm handgun and marijuana during a traffic stop on July 1. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

Neglect Charge Filed After Disabled Uncle Found Malnourished and Soiled in Somers Home

SOMERS, Wis. – A Kenosha man has been charged with negligent abuse of an at-risk individual after deputies found his disabled uncle lying incoherent, half-naked, and surrounded by feces in their shared home. Robert Jeremy Warden, 37, appeared in court Tuesday and was charged with one count of negligently subjecting an at-risk individual to abuse—specifically, conditions not likely to cause bodily harm. The charge is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. He was released on bond and is due back in court on July 25. According to the criminal complaint, a Kenosha County sheriff’s deputy was dispatched to Warden’s residence on 61st Avenue around 2:45 p.m. on July 1 after Adult Protective Services received a concerning report. Warden’s uncle, James

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Kenosha Man Accused of Tasing and Slapping Teen at Graduation Party

Jeffery W. Grundman, 34, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff) WHEATLAND, Wis. — A 34-year-old Kenosha man appeared in court Wednesday on accusations that he tased and slapped a 17-year-old at a graduation party in the Town of Wheatland, allegedly using a stun gun while intoxicated and then threatening violence when confronted. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Neglect Charge Filed After 3-Year-Old Found Wandering Kenosha Street Alone

Mary E. Spates, 35, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 35-year-old Kenosha woman is facing a felony child neglect charge after her 3-year-old son was found outside alone, wearing only underwear, in a high-traffic neighborhood early Sunday morning. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

Prospect Heights Man Identified in Fatal Highway 50 Crash

SALEM LAKES, Wis. — Authorities have identified the man killed in last week’s single-vehicle crash on Highway 50 as John B. Douglas, 69, of Prospect Heights, Illinois, according to an update issued Wednesday by the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office. Douglas was driving a full-sized pickup truck eastbound along the 22400 block of State Highway 50 on the evening of Friday, June 27, when the vehicle veered off the south side of the roadway, struck a large rock, and then collided with a tree. He was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. The Kenosha County Major Crash Assistance Team (MCAT) was dispatched to the scene and continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Officials have not yet released any findings regarding the cause. The Sheriff’s Office

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Kenosha Judge Rejects Leniency, Jails Former Teacher in Grooming Case

Christian Enwright, 30, of Kenosha Crying in Court Today(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA, Wis. – Former Kenosha middle school teacher Christian Enwright was sentenced Tuesday to 15 months in jail and three years of probation after pleading guilty to 15 counts of disorderly conduct stemming from what prosecutors described as a months-long grooming relationship with a 14-year-old student. Kenosha County Circuit Court Judge Gerad Dougvillo in Court Today(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) Judge Gerad Dougvillo handed down a sentence stiffer than most misdemeanor cases. Enwright, 30, will not be eligible for work release. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Colorado Man Accused of Sexually Assaulting Minor at Country Thunder

Ronnie O. Crews, 57, of Parker, Colorado(Kenosha County Sheriff) KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — A Colorado man appeared in a Kenosha County courtroom Monday to face serious felony charges in connection with the alleged sexual assault of a minor during the 2017 Country Thunder music festival in the Town of Randall. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

KUSD Announces Honor Roll Students for 2024-2025 School Year

It is with great pride that we share our honor roll students with you. Congratulations to each of our students whose hard work and dedication resulted in this amazing achievement. Keep up the great work! – KUSD Bradford High ‘*’ Indicates straight A’s Students in Grade 9 Elaina Barnard, Alexander Bokota, Charlotte Bradley, *Jocelyn Calero, Kaydi Caron, Morgan Christian, Sophia Coniker, *Dominik Dahlberg, *Max Dunham, Mason Englund, Carlee Erickson, *Gina Ferraro, *Maria Ferraro, *Gabriella Fiallo, Trysta Geiger, Auriana Gilliland, *Marvin Jones, Jenna Keiffer-Zagar, *Vaughan Kroeger, *Jeisy Laboy Vazquez, *Easton Ledding, Isla Ledding, Kayla Loewen, Logan Lorenzo, Hailey Luvianos, Rhyan Marden, *Elric Meyer, Grace Ochandategui, Caiden Ochranek, *Johnathon Oglesby, *Elisabeth Palao Frideres, Arch Praphaphannurat, *Melia Royal, *Catalina Sbarounis-Rodriguez, Lennon Sielski, Adalyn Stoner Students in Grade 10 Vivienne Alcocer, Carter Allen, *Wyatt

Interstate Car Theft Ring Busted After KDOG Investigation Leads to Federal Indictments

KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. –An abandoned license plate found on a rural Kenosha County highway in 2022 has unraveled what officials say was a highly sophisticated, multi-million-dollar interstate car theft and money laundering operation. The Kenosha County Drug Operations Group (KDOG), working in collaboration with federal and local partners, has helped bring federal charges against 23 individuals, the Sheriff’s Department announced Wednesday. Kenosha County Sheriff David Zoerner credited his detectives’ persistence in tracing the origins of the plate to a stolen vehicle out of Milwaukee. That single lead turned into a sweeping investigation spanning multiple states over the past three years. Search warrants executed in Wisconsin cities including Milwaukee, Madison, Racine, Sun Prairie, and La Crosse—as well as in Chicago—led to the identification of key suspects: Diaunte Shields, Casha Griffin, Brianna

House Fire Destroys Silver Lake Home — Help the Peterson Family Rebuild

On a tragic day in Silver Lake, Jim and Lisa Peterson lost everything when a fire tore through their home on East Depot Street. The fire moved fast and left behind nothing but devastation. While Jim and Lisa thankfully escaped with their lives, they are now left without a home, clothes, or the basic necessities we so often take for granted. Their family and friends are stepping in to help — and asking the community to rally around this kind and generous couple during their time of urgent need. This GoFundMe campaign, organized by Jim’s sister Jennefer Covelli, is intended to help cover the Petersons’ immediate and essential needs, including: . Every donation — big or small — will help Jim and Lisa begin the long road to recovery. They

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Judge Ends Leniency for Trenton Kmiec with 7-Year Prison Sentence

Trenton B. Kmiec, 24, of Salem Lakes and Defense Attorney Benjamin Schwarz In Court(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. – After years of what many saw as unusually light treatment across multiple counties, 25-year-old Trenton B. Kmiec was sentenced Monday to seven years in prison and another seven years of extended supervision. The son of embattled attorney and former politician Ted Kmiec, Trenton appeared before Judge Gerad Dougvillo for sentencing in two Kenosha County felony cases after violating probation. You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

Man Accused of Choke Slamming Ex-Girlfriend Now Facing Battery Charges

KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man with a prior felony conviction is facing new misdemeanor charges after allegedly attacking his ex-girlfriend during a violent domestic dispute last week. Deshaun J. Banks, 23, was charged Tuesday with misdemeanor battery and disorderly conduct, both as a repeater due to a 2024 theft conviction. He is next due in court for a district attorney pre-trial hearing on July 25. According to the criminal complaint, Banks allegedly choked and slammed his ex-girlfriend to the floor of her apartment on June 23, pinning her by the neck and saying he loved her. The next day, during another argument, he reportedly grabbed her by the tank top, which ripped, and scratched her arm after she demanded he get out of her car. The woman initially told

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