Tremper High School English Teacher Gets Six Months In Jail For 3rd OWI – Still Teaching On Work Release

Copied!
Mark P. Wisniewski (41) of Kenosha – English Teacher, Tremper High School
(Kenosha County Sheriff)

A Kenosha English teacher was sentenced to six months in jail last week after leading Kenosha Police on a 1 mile chase with a blood alcohol content of .300 – almost four times the legal limit. Mark P. Wisniewski, 41, of Kenosha, told police he didn’t stop because he “didn’t have insurance.” This wasn’t his first OWI. It was his third. Unsurprising to people familiar with KUSD policy, all three OWIs were obtained by Wisniewski while he was employed by the Kenosha Unified School District.

Paid Advertisement

Wisniewski is an English teacher at Tremper High School. He was hired on August 29, 2007. Even after the third time driving drunk, KUSD has decided to let Wisniewski continue to educate young minds. Wisconsin Governor Tony Ever’s (D) Department of Public Instruction doesn’t seem to take issue with Wisniewski’s repeated lawlessness either. His license to teach is still valid.

Paid Advertisement

On November 7, 2007, only 70 days after being hired by the district, Wisniewski got his first OWI in Milwaukee. He was found guilty on January 25, 2008.

Paid Advertisement
Mark P. Wisniewski (41) of Kenosha – English Teacher, Tremper High School
(Kenosha County Sheriff)

On August 1, 2013, while wearing a Star Wars shirt, Wisniewski was driving at a blood alcohol level of .216 – almost three times the legal limit. Wisniewski lost control of his car, drove off of the roadway and entered a backyard of a home where he crashed into a tree. He plead guilty on March 7, 2014 and served 15 days in jail.

Paid Advertisement
Mark P. Wisniewski (41) of Kenosha – English Teacher, Tremper High School
(Kenosha County Sheriff)

Finally, on June 25, 2023, a Kenosha Police Officer in an unmarked squad observed a Wisniewski in an SUV traveling eastbound approaching his location at 26th Avenue and 52nd Street, in the City and County of Kenosha, State of Wisconsin. He measured the vehicle’s speed at a 55mph in a 30mph zone.

Paid Advertisement

Due to the vehicle’s high rate of speed the officer attempted to catch up to it prior to activating his squad emergency lights and siren. His maximum speed while doing this was 54 mph. The officer activated his squad emergency lights earlier then he wanted to as the vehicle was approximately 2-3 blocks ahead of him. His maximum speeds while attempting to catch up to this vehicle with his emergency lights and siren activated was at 68 mph.

Paid Advertisement

Speeds were estimated at approximately 40 mph from this viaduct to Sheridan Road. The vehicle stopped at the red traffic light at Sheridan Road. The KPD officer stopped behind it as it stopped in the inner lane. He did not see the rear reverse lights activate as if it would have been placed into a park position. The officer then turned off the audible siren. He exited the squad and placed his driver side spotlight on the driver/side mirror area. This light illuminated the driver’s face. He also activated his 1000 lumen flashlight in to driver seat area. Officer Weidner observed the driver appear to look into the mirror in his direction. The officer yelled loudly for the driver to turn off the engine three times. He also ordered the driver to place the vehicle into park.

Paid Advertisement

During this time the traffic light turned to green. This vehicle stayed stopped for approximately 20 seconds. It then drove through the intersection continuing to drive eastbound. Officer Weidner was yelling so loud that people at Lou Perrines parking lot was looking in his direction and he heard them commenting when the vehicle drove away. Officer Weidner continued to pursue it eastbound activating his squad siren. While in the 800 block, he observed the vehicle hard brake from approximately 40 mph to 14 mph and turned the right directional and moved over to the curb lane. It appeared the vehicle was going to pull over. It did not, it continued to fail to yield to the emergency mode squad car at this slow speed until the T-intersection (all way stop signed). The officer observed this vehicle activate it’s right turn signal. It slowed to approximately 10 mph and proceeded through the intersection turning southbound. There was another vehicle stopped on the northside of the intersection yielding to his squad and not attempting to go through the intersection. This vehicle continued southbound on 6th Avenue (speeds approximately 26 mph). This vehicle then stopped at the intersection (all way stop signed) at 54th Street/6th Avenue. The vehicle turned on the left turn signal. It stopped completely then proceeded to turn eastbound on 54th Street. The vehicle then activated the right turn signal and turned southbound on 5th Avenue. Approximately half the way towards 55th Street the vehicles slowed to a stop near the west curbing.

Once stopped, the officer ordered the driver to turn off the vehicle multiple times. The driver eventually did this. he ordered him to open the driver door. He opened it slightly. He then ordered him to open it all the way, which he did. The officer ordered him to exit the vehicle with his hands in the air. He did not do as ordered. He eventually turned but not the way he ordered him. At that time a backup officer arrived and continued with the commands. Wisniewski continued to disobey the orders given to him. He was eventually placed into custody. Police believed driving actions constituted fleeing an officer charge.

Paid Advertisement

The Kenosha County District Attorney’s Office, however didn’t charge Wisniewski with felony fleeing and eluding, instead charging him with a misdemeanor count of “Resist Officer – Failure To Stop Vehicle” and OWI (3rd).

Wisniewski plead guilty to OWI (3rd) and the DA’s office dismissed the failure to stop charge. Judge Gerad Dougvillo sentenced Wisniewski to six months in jail but allowed for HUBER, also known as work release.
Beginning yesterday, Wisniewski left the jail and went to Tremper to teach, and returned to the jail at night. He will be doing this until summer break.

KUSD Superintendent Jeff Weiss (D)
(File Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

KUSD Superintendent Jeff Weiss (D) hasn’t responded to KCE with any comments. KCE has requested Wisniewski’s personnel file.

Author

Copied!
LATEST NEWS

Family Launches Fundraiser For Makayla Plaza’s Children After Brutal Killing

KENOSHA, Wis. — As the community continues to grapple with the shocking killing of Makayla Marie Rutka Plaza, a fundraiser has now been launched to help support her three young children and surviving family members as they face funeral costs, legal expenses and the difficult transition ahead. The GoFundMe was organized by Aaron Pletz, who described himself as Makayla’s stepfather since she was

City to Offer Curbside Pickup for Storm Debris Following Severe Weather

KENOSHA, Wis. — Residents dealing with fallen branches and storm debris after Thursday night’s severe weather will be able to take advantage of curbside pickup services offered by the City of Kenosha. City crews from the Department of Public Works and Parks Department are expected to begin surveying impacted neighborhoods in the coming days following the April 2 storms. Residents are being asked

MORE TOP STORIES
Plus +

Felony Strangulation Charge Filed Against Kenosha Man; Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II Sets $5,000 Cash Bail

Kevin T. Anderson, 43, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man accused of strangling his girlfriend’s daughter’s fiancé and battering another family member during a domestic disturbance was charged Wednesday and given a $5,000 cash bail by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II. Kevin

Plus +

Navy Sailor Accused of 130 MPH Police Chase Has Bail Cut From $40,000 to $20,000

Andrew Richardson Farah, 19, of Milwaukee(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 19-year-old Milwaukee man accused of leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase through Kenosha and Racine counties had his bail cut in half Thursday by Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II after originally being wanted on

Plus +

Kenosha Man Accused of Leaving 10-Year-Old Home Alone, Fighting With Police Gets $1,000 Cash Bail

Jeffery J. Schrock, 47, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) Update 4/3/2026 @ 6:22 p.m.: Attorney Benjamin Schwarz successfully moved to dismiss the child-neglect charge during Schrock’s initial appearance Thursday. Schrock now faces only the remaining counts of disorderly conduct, obstructing an officer and resisting an officer. KENOSHA, Wis. — A

Categories
Archives
Authors

67 Responses

    1. I’m one of his students in his classes and earlier this year my friend and I both thought he was a bit drunk or tipsy at the least. I brought it up to the principal and he searched his desk but they obviously don’t have the rights or the stuff to test his breath with a Breathalyzer to see if he’s at all under the influence of alcohol.

      2
      4
      1. I call b*llshit. He was arrested the summer before school and unable to drink. And he would never drink before school.

        3
        8
          1. Key word. Barfly. That’s not school. Drinking at a bar, and drinking during school, are light years apart.

            2
            1
            1. The kid said he seemed messed up at school and I believe him. Why don’t you? You probably also don’t believe rape victims either do you? You must be one of his drinking buddies at 4:00 in the afternoon.

              5
              2
          2. You have seen the barfly?? Where did you see him… in a bar?? So, by your logic, a person who goes to the bar automatically drinks on their JOB? Give me a break, your comment is absolutely ridiculous!

            1
            1
            1. OK, I’ll be more specific, I’ve seen the guy get trashed daily and go driving afterwards. I won’t name the bar but it is 2.1 miles from Tremper. He treats people like shit like the keyboard warriors who hide on here. He gives no fucks about anyone but himself, like the majority of humans. Quit defending this piece of shit, luckily he didn’t end up like Ajay Pierangeli and killing someone.

            2. someone who goes to a bar and someone who drinks themselves to the point of inebriation and then risking others lives when they drive are completely different. Sorry i talked about the Kenosha Drunks, got all your drunken feathers ruffled.

      2. If you are one of his students, then your issue shouldn’t be that he ‘was tipsy in class’, but that you are a terrible writer. Your poor writing skills should be your issue with this teacher!

    1. I’m a sinner. We all are. I’m happy to say that I have been sober for about 14 years now. So I will never be caught drunk driving once let alone three times. I live a pretty boring life and I’ve never been arrested in my first 39 years. Maybe I’ll do something stupid in the future, but I doubt it. If I do get arrested one day, you’ll read it first here. Have a wonderful day

      52
      3
      1. We are all sinners and fall short of the Glory of God, but we have a loving Redeemer. Just because Kevin points out the criminal entities in the government and KUSD is no reason to attack him. Kevin is doing an excellent job in notifying the public of harmful individuals in our community and I am extremely grateful for that. The fact is, Wisniewski is a criminal and should not be teaching children. Jeff Weiss has shirked his duties as a Superintendent numerous times. Since he does nothing to stop this behavior, it must mean that he condones it.

        6
        2
  1. That’s the KUSD way! Hire and keep employment of criminals and be more friends then role models with students. Disgrace

    10
    4
  2. The good news it that this teacher was not convicted of a sex offense. He is just a drunk. Sadly, like so many other people in Wisconsin.

    11
    3
  3. The Devil’s Juice. Glad I gave up my ill-fated drinking career many many moons ago. I received one DUI about 15 years ago. I drove drunk thousands of times, not something I am proud of, but it happened the way it happen because that was the way it was supposed to happen. All things in life are predetermined. Congratulations to those who have stopped drinking and to those struggling like this man, I wish you the best.

    7
    2
  4. One of the best English teachers I’ve ever had! Everyone makes mistakes, some people learn others don’t.

    13
    1
    1. Yes ! He taught us how to properly tap a keg , do shots while driving , throw empty bottles out of the the car window , use a cork screw . Very helpful and informative .

      5
      3
    2. Yes ! He taught us how to properly tap a keg , do shots while driving , throw empty bottles out of the the car window , use a cork screw . Very helpful and informative .

      1
      1
  5. KUSD loves criminals and those who protect. There are zero morals and values anymore. Look at last week….. giving praise to those who protect pedophiles

    4
    2
  6. Not defending drunk drivers but I would be an alky if I had to deal with todays idiot kids and libtard parents.

    12
    0
  7. My question is more about if he is sober when teaching? When you reach the level of a .30 bac., it raises serious concerns. This would be a serious red flag that he has a serious problem and probably is consuming at all hours of the day. So, I would recommend that if he continues to be a teacher that they check his sobriety during the school day and especially first thing in the morning.

    4
    1
  8. Kenosha County passed on the chance to have an OWI court to address repeat offenders. The Drug Court team was sent to Madison for training but the idea never got off the ground because the county would not commit to the frequent random testing to ensure that these people weren’t drinking.

  9. He was a good teacher, when I had him at tremper in the 2010’s. He obviously has a drinking problem, and I hope he can get help. Let’s hope he’s not drinking in the job

    4
    2
  10. KUSD seems to attract the bottom of the barrel–we have pedophiles, porn addicts, porn pushers, sex-change proponants, drunkards and more–all in charge of your children. Jeff Weiss and Yolanda Adams and the most of the school board doesn’t seem to care about your kids. When will you pull your kids out of public schools? They don’t have a chance with the government running roughshod over your kids.

    7
    1
  11. The more times the Union saves a man’s job because he is screw up, the more the Union owns and controls the man and his political views. UAW 72 taught me this.
    In his position as high school Teacher, Wisniewski has influence over and shapes his students’ political education.
    Nothing serious will happen to Wisniewski if he is part of the Communist-Democrat indoctrination process that youth receive at KUSD .

    2
    1
  12. Let’s be honest, he was charged with a lesser crime because he is a Democrat. They take care of their ilk. He doesn’t deserve Huber, he ran from police which is a serious crime. 3rd OWI? He should only be released to an AA meeting inside the jail. He’s probably drinking. Thank you corrupt Dem DA and Judge! Asshats!

    5
    2
  13. Mark is a great teacher and a human being who clearly has a problem. Those of you who are accusing him of drinking while at work or drinking while teaching kids, are speculating about something you have no idea about. The facts are that this man needs help and he hasn’t harmed any children. He made bad decisions while NOT at work and off the clock, yes, he should be punished and suffer the consequences, but what happened outside of work does not mean he didn’t properly perform while at work.

  14. I don’t think any of us are perfect in life, I don’t think we should judge their actions outside of school because it’s not our business, I know what a good person he is and the excellent teacher he is and if they don’t like that he is in Tremper, go to another school.

    4
    3
    1. If somebody doesn’t like it they should go to another school? Do you understand that based on where somebody lives they only have one choice for a school? I respect your opinion but this is a ridiculous argument

      4
      2
      1. Actually there are 75 to 100 KUSD kids who open enroll to Central High School in Paddock Lake. Central sends a bus or two every morning to the Brat Stop to pick kids up.

    2. AG: You are right in that none of us are perfect and what anyone does outside of work is really no one’s business at work, as long as the person is performing well at work. Mark is a great teacher and a good person. He would never hurt the children and he is very good at his job. There are times when I commend Kevin for the type of reporting that he does, but in this case, I see him making life more difficult for a person who is already struggling.

      5
      1
    3. So driving drunk and getting caught 3 times, he is not a good person because he could have killed innocent people. If he wants to drink don’t drink and drive!!

    4. AG, it’s funny people say comments like that, yet judge police, president, and anyone else on their acts outside of their profession. But I’m sure you only do that when it fits your agenda. A teacher is supposed to be a role model for one. So if you literally support 3 times OWI for a teacher in a highschool who teaches kids that do drive, you my hypocritical friend are a idiot

  15. AG: You are right in that none of us are perfect and what anyone does outside of work is really no one’s business at work, as long as the person is performing well at work. Mark is a great teacher and a good person. He would never hurt the children and he is very good at his job. There are times when I commend Kevin for the type of reporting that he does, but in this case, I see him making life more difficult for a person who is already struggling.

    3
    1
  16. Perhaps KUSD brass doesn’t want to look too deep into DUI’s because they may have to look in the mirror. Many administrators have been in the same boat or protected their friends by looking the other way.

  17. Does KCE report on all the teachers that have 3 OWI convictions or just the ones you did not go to school with???

  18. Reason 1000 why parents are pulling their kids from the district. Shitty teachers, criminals, sick fucks, and buddy buddy. Don’t cry about lack of kids being born, they are flooding private and county schools. Idiots like Landry, who’s husband is a rapist will fit well on the kusd board. Criminals stick together right? Shawnell gross, kids call him dad! And he goes to court hearings for murderers, was part of jury tampering and still employed, barker, openly supporter fuller hours after he killed a young girl, still employed. Anyone who supports that organization is a blind fucken idiot

  19. I get this was his 3rd offense on the last 17 years, but you making a mockery of this man who obviously has a drinking problem is horrendous.

  20. I guess that doesn’t violate policy so long as he isn’t driving to school drunk or drinking once he gets there, so at least he’s earning a paycheck and paying income taxes in the meantime. Obviously, he didn’t learn anything and will eventually end up in prison.
    Then the kusd will perhaps use him to teach online classes 🤣

Add a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

LATEST NEWS

Family Launches Fundraiser For Makayla Plaza’s Children After Brutal Killing

KENOSHA, Wis. — As the community continues to grapple with the shocking killing of Makayla Marie Rutka Plaza, a fundraiser has now been launched to help support her three young children and surviving family members as they face funeral costs, legal expenses and the difficult transition ahead. The GoFundMe was organized by Aaron Pletz, who described himself as Makayla’s stepfather since she was

City to Offer Curbside Pickup for Storm Debris Following Severe Weather

KENOSHA, Wis. — Residents dealing with fallen branches and storm debris after Thursday night’s severe weather will be able to take advantage of curbside pickup services offered by the City of Kenosha. City crews from the Department of Public Works and Parks Department are expected to begin surveying impacted neighborhoods in the coming days following the April 2 storms. Residents are being asked

Plus +

Storm Damage—In Photos: Trees Down, Thousands Without Power After Violent Storms Sweep Through Kenosha County

Kenosha Storm of April 3, 2026(Submitted by Reader) KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — Strong storms tore through Kenosha County Thursday night, leaving behind downed trees, damaged homes, toppled power lines and thousands of residents without electricity. Many readers sent Kenosha County Eye photos overnight and early Friday morning showing the widespread destruction left behind by the storm. Images submitted to KCE showed large trees

Plus +

Press Conference: Marckus Plaza In Custody After 30-Hour Manhunt; Who Put The Handcuffs On Him Will Surprise You

Kenosha Police Chief Pat Patton at Press Conference this Evening(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) Warning: The details in this case are disturbing and may be graphic for some readers. KENOSHA, Wis. — Police held a press conference at 5 p.m. Thursday at the Kenosha Public Museum, where they laid out new details about the murder of Makayla Plaza, the nearly 30-hour

Illinois Man Already Facing Attempted Homicide Charges Accused of Secret Jail Calls With Salem Woman

KENOSHA, Wis. — Jake C. Wenzel, 30, of Antioch, Illinois, was charged Tuesday with four new counts of felony bail jumping and four counts of violating jail rules after prosecutors say he repeatedly communicated with Salem woman Savannah Lee Burm while both were locked up in the Kenosha County Detention Center. Wenzel is already facing two counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide and

Plus +

Felony Strangulation Charge Filed Against Kenosha Man; Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II Sets $5,000 Cash Bail

Kevin T. Anderson, 43, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man accused of strangling his girlfriend’s daughter’s fiancé and battering another family member during a domestic disturbance was charged Wednesday and given a $5,000 cash bail by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II. Kevin T. Anderson, 43, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in

Plus +

Navy Sailor Accused of 130 MPH Police Chase Has Bail Cut From $40,000 to $20,000

Andrew Richardson Farah, 19, of Milwaukee(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 19-year-old Milwaukee man accused of leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase through Kenosha and Racine counties had his bail cut in half Thursday by Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II after originally being wanted on a $40,000 arrest warrant issued last month. Andrew Richardson Farah, 19, of Milwaukee(Kenosha

Plus +

Kenosha Man Accused of Leaving 10-Year-Old Home Alone, Fighting With Police Gets $1,000 Cash Bail

Jeffery J. Schrock, 47, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) Update 4/3/2026 @ 6:22 p.m.: Attorney Benjamin Schwarz successfully moved to dismiss the child-neglect charge during Schrock’s initial appearance Thursday. Schrock now faces only the remaining counts of disorderly conduct, obstructing an officer and resisting an officer. KENOSHA, Wis. — A 47-year-old Kenosha man accused of leaving his 10-year-old son home alone while he

Plus +

Twin Lakes Man Accused of Stealing Cash, Jewelry and Forging Elderly Victim’s Checks Gets $7,500 Cash Bail

Robert J. Schmidt Sr., 53, of Twin Lakes(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — A Twin Lakes man accused of stealing thousands of dollars in cash, jewelry and mailed checks from an elderly man who allowed him to live in his home for years was given a $7,500 cash bail Thursday by Court Commissioner William Michel II. Robert J. Schmidt Sr., 53,

Plus +

Illinois Menards Felony Theft Suspect Gets Bail Cut After Arrest; Juan Zavala Gonzalez, 41, Still at Large

Ramon Morales, 46, of Waukegan(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 46-year-old Illinois man accused of repeatedly stealing roofing materials and shingles from Menards stores had his cash bail reduced Thursday after his arrest Wednesday, while his alleged co-defendant, Juan Zavala Gonzalez, 41, remains at large. Ramon Morales, 46, of Waukegan(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in to view the

Two Dead After Overnight House Fire in Pleasant Prairie

PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — Two people are dead after a house fire early Thursday morning in the 2500 block of 116th Street in Pleasant Prairie. Police were reportedly the first to arrive at the home, where they found heavy flames coming from the rear of the house. Officers indicated the fire was too intense for them to safely enter the residence without proper

Plus +

Kenosha Woman Accused of Stealing More Than $2,100 in Merchandise From Target and Nike Given $2,500 Bail

Lorilei L. Barwick, 53, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — A Kenosha woman accused of stealing more than $2,100 worth of merchandise from Target and Nike over two separate dates was charged Wednesday and given a $2,500 cash bail by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II. Michel also ordered 53-year-old Lorilei L. Barwick to have no contact with

Plus +

Chicago Man Wanted on $10,000 Warrant After Allegedly Using Fake Funeral Scam to Try to Steal Thousands From Kenosha Shoppers

Kenosha Police Department(File Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 24-year-old Chicago man is wanted in Kenosha County after prosecutors charged him with allegedly using a fake funeral donation scam to try to steal thousands of dollars from shoppers outside two Kenosha stores. Court Commissioner William Michel II issued a $10,000 warrant for Kion E. Harris after charges were

Kenosha Hometown Heroes Commission Opens Second Quarter Nominations

KENOSHA, Wis. — The Kenosha Hometown Heroes Commission is once again seeking nominations for local veterans to be recognized during the second quarter of 2026. The program honors men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces and who have a connection to the City of Kenosha. Eligible nominees must have been born in Kenosha, currently

City Compost Site To Open April 6; Free Drop-Off Available for Kenosha Residents

KENOSHA, Wis. — Kenosha residents will once again be able to drop off brush, branches and compostable materials beginning Monday, April 6, when the city’s Compost/Brush Drop-Off Site reopens for the season. The site, located at 4071 88th Ave., will operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays. The service is available only to City of Kenosha residents and

Tiffany Pushes to End Emissions Testing, Eliminate Taxes on Tips and Overtime in New Campaign Proposals

GREENDALE, Wis. — Republican gubernatorial candidate and Congressman Tom Tiffany unveiled two major economic proposals Tuesday, calling for an end to Wisconsin’s vehicle emissions testing requirement and promising to eliminate state income taxes on tips and overtime pay. During an event in Greendale, Tiffany said Wisconsin’s emissions testing system is outdated and places unnecessary burdens on drivers in seven southeastern Wisconsin counties. He

City to Honor Four Kenosha Leaders With Memorial Tree Plantings on Arbor Day

KENOSHA, Wis. — Four longtime Kenosha community leaders who died in 2025 and 2026 will be honored later this month during the City of Kenosha’s annual Arbor Day observance, with memorial trees planted in their names at parks across the city. The Arbor Day commemorations will take place April 24 and will recognize John Hawley, Dr. Paul Capelli, William “Bill” Rice Jr. and

Plus +

Children Allegedly Watched as Kenosha Man Murdered Wife; DA Files Homicide Charge Within Hours

Marckus L.A. Plaza, 33, of Kenosha (Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office)Crime Scene (Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) Warning: The details in this case are disturbing and may be graphic for some readers. KENOSHA, Wis. — District Attorney Xavier Solis and his team worked quickly with Kenosha police Wednesday to file a homicide charge and secure an arrest warrant within hours of Makayla Marie Rutka

Plus +

Walworth Judge Assigned To Ortiz John Doe as Deputy, or County, Retains Two Lawyers

Racine County Deputy Emil Ortiz, 37, of Somers (Mugshot)FLOCK Image Illegally Obtained by Ortiz KENOSHA, Wis. — The John Doe petition filed by Kenosha County Eye publisher Kevin Mathewson against Racine County Sheriff’s Deputy Emil Ortiz continues to move forward, with Chief Judge Wynne P. Lautenberg now assigning a Walworth County judge to oversee the case and Ortiz formally hiring two attorneys. You

In Unusual Move, Sister, Mother and Attorney Reach Out to Kenosha County Eye About Salem Woman Who is in “Deep Shit”

KENOSHA, Wis. — In an unusual development following charges filed against Salem woman Savannah Lee Burm, both Burm’s sister and Burm’s attorney contacted Kenosha County Eye after the outlet published a story detailing allegations that Burm helped accused attempted homicide suspect Jake C. Wenzel avoid capture. Burm, 29, was charged on Nov. 26 with Straw Purchasing of a Firearm, Harboring or Aiding a

Manhunt Underway for Kenosha Man Accused of Murdering His Wife After Bargain Bail Billy Denied Her Restraining Order Weeks Earlier

KENOSHA, Wis. — Kenosha police have not officially confirmed the identity of the victim in Tuesday morning’s apparent homicide near 75th Street and 22nd Avenue, but sources indicate the victim is seemingly Makayla Marie Rutka Plaza, 28. The suspect is her estranged husband, 33-year-old Marckus L.A. Plaza, who remained the subject of a massive manhunt as of publication. Police were initially called to

Kenosha County DA Xavier Solis Owes $8,000 in Back Taxes, Addresses Lien: ‘I’m Only Human’

KENOSHA, Wis. — Wisconsin Circuit Court records filed early Tuesday morning show the state Department of Revenue filed a delinquent income tax warrant against Solis in Kenosha County Circuit Court, case number 2026TW000318. The warrant, which carries the force of a civil judgment, reflects $8,024 in unpaid income taxes, $2,873.98 in penalties, and $2,710.60 in accrued interest, a total of $13,608.58. The underlying

Supreme Court Ruling Puts Kenosha Conversion Therapy Ban in Legal Jeopardy

KENOSHA, Wis. — A new U.S. Supreme Court ruling striking down a Colorado conversion therapy ban is likely to place the City of Kenosha’s own ordinance banning the practice on shaky constitutional ground. On Tuesday, the nation’s highest court ruled 8-1 that Colorado’s law banning licensed therapists from providing conversion therapy to minors violated the First Amendment because it restricted speech based on

Nearly 49 Years After Ralph Gianoli Was Found Beaten and Strangled in His Home, Kenosha Police Say DNA Helped Identify Suspect

KENOSHA, Wis. — Nearly 49 years after Ralph Ambrose Gianoli was found beaten and strangled to death inside his home at 5310 25th Ave., Kenosha police on Tuesday publicly laid out how preserved evidence, modern DNA testing and years of renewed investigative work led to the arrest of a Tennessee man in one of the city’s oldest unsolved homicide cases. Police say James

LATEST NEWS

Family Launches Fundraiser For Makayla Plaza’s Children After Brutal Killing

KENOSHA, Wis. — As the community continues to grapple with the shocking killing of Makayla Marie Rutka Plaza, a fundraiser has now been launched to help support her three young children and surviving family members as they face funeral costs, legal expenses and the difficult transition ahead. The GoFundMe was organized by Aaron Pletz, who described himself as Makayla’s stepfather since she was

City to Offer Curbside Pickup for Storm Debris Following Severe Weather

KENOSHA, Wis. — Residents dealing with fallen branches and storm debris after Thursday night’s severe weather will be able to take advantage of curbside pickup services offered by the City of Kenosha. City crews from the Department of Public Works and Parks Department are expected to begin surveying impacted neighborhoods in the coming days following the April 2 storms. Residents are being asked

Plus +

Storm Damage—In Photos: Trees Down, Thousands Without Power After Violent Storms Sweep Through Kenosha County

Kenosha Storm of April 3, 2026(Submitted by Reader) KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — Strong storms tore through Kenosha County Thursday night, leaving behind downed trees, damaged homes, toppled power lines and thousands of residents without electricity. Many readers sent Kenosha County Eye photos overnight and early Friday morning showing the widespread destruction left behind by the storm. Images submitted to KCE showed large trees

Plus +

Press Conference: Marckus Plaza In Custody After 30-Hour Manhunt; Who Put The Handcuffs On Him Will Surprise You

Kenosha Police Chief Pat Patton at Press Conference this Evening(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) Warning: The details in this case are disturbing and may be graphic for some readers. KENOSHA, Wis. — Police held a press conference at 5 p.m. Thursday at the Kenosha Public Museum, where they laid out new details about the murder of Makayla Plaza, the nearly 30-hour

Illinois Man Already Facing Attempted Homicide Charges Accused of Secret Jail Calls With Salem Woman

KENOSHA, Wis. — Jake C. Wenzel, 30, of Antioch, Illinois, was charged Tuesday with four new counts of felony bail jumping and four counts of violating jail rules after prosecutors say he repeatedly communicated with Salem woman Savannah Lee Burm while both were locked up in the Kenosha County Detention Center. Wenzel is already facing two counts of attempted first-degree intentional homicide and

Plus +

Felony Strangulation Charge Filed Against Kenosha Man; Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II Sets $5,000 Cash Bail

Kevin T. Anderson, 43, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man accused of strangling his girlfriend’s daughter’s fiancé and battering another family member during a domestic disturbance was charged Wednesday and given a $5,000 cash bail by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II. Kevin T. Anderson, 43, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in

Plus +

Navy Sailor Accused of 130 MPH Police Chase Has Bail Cut From $40,000 to $20,000

Andrew Richardson Farah, 19, of Milwaukee(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 19-year-old Milwaukee man accused of leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase through Kenosha and Racine counties had his bail cut in half Thursday by Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II after originally being wanted on a $40,000 arrest warrant issued last month. Andrew Richardson Farah, 19, of Milwaukee(Kenosha

Plus +

Kenosha Man Accused of Leaving 10-Year-Old Home Alone, Fighting With Police Gets $1,000 Cash Bail

Jeffery J. Schrock, 47, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) Update 4/3/2026 @ 6:22 p.m.: Attorney Benjamin Schwarz successfully moved to dismiss the child-neglect charge during Schrock’s initial appearance Thursday. Schrock now faces only the remaining counts of disorderly conduct, obstructing an officer and resisting an officer. KENOSHA, Wis. — A 47-year-old Kenosha man accused of leaving his 10-year-old son home alone while he

Plus +

Twin Lakes Man Accused of Stealing Cash, Jewelry and Forging Elderly Victim’s Checks Gets $7,500 Cash Bail

Robert J. Schmidt Sr., 53, of Twin Lakes(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — A Twin Lakes man accused of stealing thousands of dollars in cash, jewelry and mailed checks from an elderly man who allowed him to live in his home for years was given a $7,500 cash bail Thursday by Court Commissioner William Michel II. Robert J. Schmidt Sr., 53,

Plus +

Illinois Menards Felony Theft Suspect Gets Bail Cut After Arrest; Juan Zavala Gonzalez, 41, Still at Large

Ramon Morales, 46, of Waukegan(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 46-year-old Illinois man accused of repeatedly stealing roofing materials and shingles from Menards stores had his cash bail reduced Thursday after his arrest Wednesday, while his alleged co-defendant, Juan Zavala Gonzalez, 41, remains at large. Ramon Morales, 46, of Waukegan(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in to view the

Two Dead After Overnight House Fire in Pleasant Prairie

PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — Two people are dead after a house fire early Thursday morning in the 2500 block of 116th Street in Pleasant Prairie. Police were reportedly the first to arrive at the home, where they found heavy flames coming from the rear of the house. Officers indicated the fire was too intense for them to safely enter the residence without proper

Plus +

Kenosha Woman Accused of Stealing More Than $2,100 in Merchandise From Target and Nike Given $2,500 Bail

Lorilei L. Barwick, 53, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — A Kenosha woman accused of stealing more than $2,100 worth of merchandise from Target and Nike over two separate dates was charged Wednesday and given a $2,500 cash bail by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II. Michel also ordered 53-year-old Lorilei L. Barwick to have no contact with

Plus +

Chicago Man Wanted on $10,000 Warrant After Allegedly Using Fake Funeral Scam to Try to Steal Thousands From Kenosha Shoppers

Kenosha Police Department(File Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 24-year-old Chicago man is wanted in Kenosha County after prosecutors charged him with allegedly using a fake funeral donation scam to try to steal thousands of dollars from shoppers outside two Kenosha stores. Court Commissioner William Michel II issued a $10,000 warrant for Kion E. Harris after charges were

Kenosha Hometown Heroes Commission Opens Second Quarter Nominations

KENOSHA, Wis. — The Kenosha Hometown Heroes Commission is once again seeking nominations for local veterans to be recognized during the second quarter of 2026. The program honors men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces and who have a connection to the City of Kenosha. Eligible nominees must have been born in Kenosha, currently

City Compost Site To Open April 6; Free Drop-Off Available for Kenosha Residents

KENOSHA, Wis. — Kenosha residents will once again be able to drop off brush, branches and compostable materials beginning Monday, April 6, when the city’s Compost/Brush Drop-Off Site reopens for the season. The site, located at 4071 88th Ave., will operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays. The service is available only to City of Kenosha residents and

Tiffany Pushes to End Emissions Testing, Eliminate Taxes on Tips and Overtime in New Campaign Proposals

GREENDALE, Wis. — Republican gubernatorial candidate and Congressman Tom Tiffany unveiled two major economic proposals Tuesday, calling for an end to Wisconsin’s vehicle emissions testing requirement and promising to eliminate state income taxes on tips and overtime pay. During an event in Greendale, Tiffany said Wisconsin’s emissions testing system is outdated and places unnecessary burdens on drivers in seven southeastern Wisconsin counties. He

Categories
Archives
Authors

Wake Up to What You Missed

Get notified of new articles. We'll never share your email address.