Ajay Pierangeli Sentenced to 30 Years in Fatal OWI Crash That Killed Two Friends

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Ajay Gregory Pierangeli, 22, of Pleasant Prairie In Court Today
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

KENOSHA, Wis. — Nearly two years after a drunk driving crash killed two college students and shattered two families, Ajay Gregory Pierangeli was sentenced Thursday to 30 years in prison for the deaths of Dylan Zamora and Jenna Barrette.

Kenosha County Circuit Judge Anthony Milisauskas handed down the sentence in a packed courtroom, ordering 15 years of initial confinement for each victim—Zamora and Barrette—to be served consecutively, followed by 30 years of extended supervision, 15 years per count.

Ajay Gregory Pierangeli, 22, of Pleasant Prairie In Court Today
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

Pierangeli, 22, pleaded guilty earlier this year to two counts of homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. Two additional charges related to injuries suffered by other passengers were dismissed but read in for sentencing.

The courtroom was filled with friends and family members, many of whom wept as Dylan’s grandfather and Jenna’s mother gave powerful victim impact statements.

“He was my everything.”

Jon Heinz, Dylan’s grandfather, said he never had children of his own, but Dylan—his first grandchild—was the closest thing he had to a son.

“He was the greatest thing to ever come into my life,” Heinz said through tears. “He was the family rock. I was there for his first words, his first steps, his first time riding a bike. I wanted to be there when he graduated, when he had kids of his own. I’ll never get that now.”

He recalled the night of the crash in vivid detail, receiving a phone call that Dylan had died and letting out a scream he said still haunts him. “It sucked the soul right out of me.”

Heinz said Pierangeli’s actions on July 28, 2023, were not just tragic but arrogant. “A good friend would have said, ‘I’m too wasted to drive.’ He didn’t. And now my grandson is gone.”

“She was pure sunshine.”

Tammy Barrett, Jenna’s mother, described her daughter as “pure sunshine,” the kind of person who made everyone feel like they were the most important person in the room.

“She never said goodbye without saying ‘I love you,’” Barrett told the court. “She was supposed to be the maid of honor in her sister’s wedding. We lost her laughter, her future, and our future grandchildren. There are no more memories.”

Barrett expressed frustration that prosecutors had recommended 12 years for each victim. “I will never understand how my daughter’s life is only worth 12 years,” she said. “Ajay will walk out of prison someday. Jenna and Dylan never will.”

Assistant District Attorney Zachary Brost in Court Today
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

Prosecutor Calls Case ‘Gut-Wrenching’

Assistant District Attorney Zachary Brost described the crash as one of the most emotional cases of his career.

“This wasn’t just dangerous—it was deadly,” he told the court. “And this wasn’t even the defendant’s first OWI. His BAC was nearly .23. He hit the accelerator instead of the brake and crashed into a building at 50 miles an hour.”

Brost said police bodycam video showed a horrific scene and that officers were “flabbergasted” upon arrival. “There were five people in that truck. Only one was conscious. The others were already gone or clinging to life.”

He emphasized that Pierangeli made a choice that no one else did. “There’s no allegation that anyone was forced into that truck. But only one person took the keys. And that person had a duty not just to his friends, but to the public.”

Defense Highlights Acceptance and Character

Defense attorney Eric Olson said Pierangeli took full responsibility from the start and declined to challenge the case at trial.

“AJ made the mature decision not to contest this,” Olson said. “He said from the beginning, ‘This is all my fault.’ That kind of acceptance is rare.”

Olson pushed back against claims that Pierangeli was arrogant or reckless by nature. “Everyone at the party before the accident was there because of AJ. He worked at the Boys & Girls Club, won a Bully Buster award in high school, had no serious criminal history, and helped kids.”

Olson noted that Pierangeli attended Bible study twice weekly in jail and asked the judge for mercy, suggesting a 14-year sentence instead of 30.

Kenosha County Circuit Court Judge Anthony Milisauskas in Court Today
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

Judge Cites Aggravating Factors in 30-Year Sentence

Judge Milisauskas said he considered the gravity of the crime, Pierangeli’s prior OWI, the high speed of the crash, and the devastating loss to the victims’ families.

“You drove into a building. Two people died,” the judge said. “There has to be a serious consequence. Each life is precious. And your decision took that from two families forever.”

Milisauskas acknowledged Pierangeli’s remorse but said deterrence, public safety, and justice required a strong sentence. “This isn’t just a tragic accident. This is a preventable one. You made a decision. And others are paying for it with their lives.”

The judge sentenced Pierangeli to 15 years of initial confinement for each victim—served consecutively—and 15 years of extended supervision per count, for a total of 30 years in prison and 30 years on paper.


Ajay Gregory Pierangeli, 22, of Pleasant Prairie In Court Today
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

Apology from Defendant

Pierangeli addressed the court and the families directly.

“I failed as a friend. I failed as a brother. I failed as a son,” he said. “I would give anything to bring Dylan and Jenna back. I hate myself every day.”

He added, “If prison brings healing, even in the slightest, that is the good I hope for. I am so sorry. I will do whatever I can to atone.”

Looking Ahead

Pierangeli was credited with 714 days already served. If he serves the full 30 years of confinement, he will be nearly 50 years old when released.

Under Wisconsin law, homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle is a Class C felony punishable by up to 40 years per count. While the state recommended 24 years total, Judge Milisauskas imposed a more sever punishment than the plea deal—15 years per victim.

“This sentence won’t bring Dylan and Jenna back,” Milisauskas said. “But it will send a message—and protect the community from something like this happening again.”

Ajay Gregory Pierangeli, 22, of Pleasant Prairie In Court Today
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Jenna Barrette and Dylan Zamora
(Legacy.com)

According to Jenna’s obituary:

“She loved spending time with her family, friends, and especially her cat Max. Her love for animals didn’t stop there as she worked at the Humane Society and fostered kittens and puppies in her free time. She also loved going to the beach and pool, working out with her sister, taking naps, and playing volleyball.

She played competitive volleyball since she was nine years old, including club, high school, and college. Jenna always lived life to the fullest. Just in the last few months, she completed her junior year of college, went on a Mediterranean cruise, and went to Summerfest and Country Thunder. Jenna made everyone around her feel special and loved. Countless people thought of her as their best friend. She had a smile and personality that would light up any room she walked into. Although many are grieving here, Jenna ultimately fulfilled her purpose on earth, and God called her home to Heaven.”

According to Dylan’s obituary:

“Born on July 20, 2001, in Kenosha; he was the son of Erin Zamora.

He was educated in the schools of Kenosha and was a graduate of Tremper High School. He was attending the University of Wisconsin Parkside as a senior pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences with the goal of becoming a Physician’s Assistant.

He was an avid lover of all sports, especially soccer, having spent four years on the Tremper soccer team. In his younger years, he played a season of CYC football for the Bears, which didn’t bode well with him as he was a Packer’s fan.

He also greatly enjoyed video games, playing online with friends from all corners of the world. He loved animals, especially dogs and would always talk about how he wanted to have the biggest dog possible someday. He enjoyed traveling and loved going to Minnesota to see his many relatives. He recently shared his aspirations of someday moving to Seattle and raising a family of his own.”

Memorial For Jenna Barrette
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Memorial For Jenna Barrette
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Memorial For Jenna Barrette
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
Memorial For Jenna Barrette
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

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110 Responses

  1. Jenna was a very special young lady. I did not know Dylan.
    This man surely deserves punishment, but the other 4 made their own bad decisions that night. I think the 24 years would have been more appropriate.

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      1. Ajay’s Kenosha extended Italian family-network is certainly quite the group. Ajay, a year younger than Dylan, beat Dylan up bad enough a year prior puttlng him in the hospital. That Dylan continued with “bad hang” Ajay, including his clownish drunken behavior immediately prior to his instant death illustrated either/or very compromised judgment and/or or some form of Stockholm psychological syndrome connection to Ajay. Nevertheless, it’s very regrettable that Dylan, who had a future, lost his life. Kudos to Judge Milasauskas for imposing the 30 year sentence, ensuring proper time in the WI Big House Cooler for the young Italian bully. Should Ajay survive his sentence, hopefully he will be converted to evolve into becoming a spiritually wise man upon his release.

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          1. Being drunk is not the clownish behavior…. Its the fact he decided to drive while hammered and killed people genius

        1. A reply to this…Dylan never went to the hospital after her attack from Ajay. He never shared with family. This incident with photos was shared after my grandsons death. Dylan did distance himself from Ajay for along time. As far as Dylan a passenger at the time of the crash, he was in the back seat. Dylan didn’t deserve what happened to him. Jenna either. They trusted a friend who was driving.

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    1. Yes, the mistake from Jenna of picking Ajay out of the group to drive after testing him by making him “walk the plank” & Dylan by hanging out the window blowing kisses at the ambulance they’ve brought up in court multiple times (talk about a distraction while trying to drive your friends home). Quincy & Alex for getting in the car & letting their friends also get in it, Ajay has accepted responsibility as shown in his moving statement today, what about the others?

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        1. Doesn’t murder require intent and even premeditation? I think you might be posting on the wrong article.

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          1. Ajay intentionally got behind the wheel almost 3 times the legal limit. He made that decision intentionally. He knew the consequences of driving drunk as he flipped a car drunk driving at 17. He just never got caught drunk driving between 17 and 20 years old. which makes him underage. The law needs to be changed, to reflect killing someone while driving drunk is murder.

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            1. His parents should have gotten him help a long time ago not just his Italian father how about his non Italian mom. People r focusing on his Italian background. He’s half Italian.

        1. Isn’t there a concept called contributory negligence? Spreading the blame seems reasonable here.

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          1. Go fuck yourself Birdwatcher sick of your bullshit comments We
            Got justice today for Dylan amd Jenna!

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          2. You should go to school. become a lawyer, then a judge. The Judge would not entertain culpability. I believe he knows more than you.

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      1. How is someone doing something not in the front at all, how could that ever distract him:..fyi that wasn’t near where Ajay crashed!!!!

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        1. Not a fukking Zamora saying that lol that’s comical. 90 percent of zamoras are trash. You had me until your last comment.

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      2. the others are dead. i’m sorry but how much accountability can they take? he literally took their lives by getting behind that wheel. no other details matter

  2. RIP where you there for every court hearing? I think the Judge was being lenient with 30 years. Ajay got behind the wheel, not the others, Ajay was arrogant enough to think he could drive drunk, and crash into a building while doing 50+ mph, hitting the accelerator to the floor instead of the brake. Don’t even think that blaming the dead deserves a lighter. sentence. Until you hear all the facts, don’t make ignorant comments.

    Kevin, thank you for factual reporting, and being at the courthouse today.

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    1. 30 Years !! Kid didn’t see that coming.

      But he got it. Every person that knows him or the ones who died can think twice about driving drunk.

      That’s why I’m happy the judge gave him consecutive sentences.
      Though it really should be life !
      He took life. We should take his

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  3. 20yrs would have been harsh, 15 total probably fair. Didn’t follow this case, but how is a DWI first offense not even a felony, yet when death occurs you get 30yrs? Seems like intentional homicide levels of punishment.

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  4. There’s no excuse for committing murder. Why is anyone even doubting this?!? The blood alcohol level of anyone not driving isn’t an issue. They didn’t commit a crime.😡. What the f***. DON’t Drink and drive!!!!!!! There’s no way excuse for the stupidity

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    1. I agree with this punishment he should have never been driving ANYONE..when drunk and being his second offense is just ridiculous…the laws are so bad with OWIs that people think they can keep getting away with it…bc they CAN and then finally something bad happens and it’s awful….I also think that there is some fault with those who also got in the car with AJ we reach out kids to never get in the car with a drunk driver EVER…it’s not a hard thing to do they have a job to do too by keeping themselves and their friends safe.

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  5. This whole deal is tragic. Such great lives lost. My thoughts and prayers are with those who lost loved ones, and I hope the family of the family of Ajay realizes their part in this mess. I hope they realize that he is still alive, something others do not have that convince. The loss is real, and so are the consequences.

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  6. Judges who accept and then exceed plea bargains are just asking for more trials. I hope the defense attorney on this case remembers that next time the state offers to recommend X years in exchange for a plea in front of this judge. Make them all pay with a jury trial. The final sentence wouldn’t have been any worse.

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    1. This judge is retiring, so he does not care.
      The rest of the judges who play for the press had better be ready to work. Lots of week long trials coming; cancel your Wednesday golf leagues.

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    1. It dosent matter who bought the alcohol it is illegal to drink and drive especially your sending offense!

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      1. Erin I was on your side until you made a wildly racist comment. But I also hear you abandoned your child. So maybe white knight somewhere else.

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    2. likely
      One of the others as Ajay was the only one still 20… they were drinking at his girlfriend at the time Allie stone’s who was also not 21 at the time.. the barrettes told everyone that’s where they were that night so I’d assume it’s true

  7. This isn’t the FIRST time he violated the law regarding alcohol use, this is not even the SECOND time he committed an alcohol or drug related violation and was caught (seems nobody looked hard enough to see there was indeed a second citation issued for underage alcohol use which resulted in a forfeiture and an education opportunity), this is the THIRD OFFENSE (that he was caught for) and sadly, the very thing many of us tried desperately to prevent. He was warned, he had every chance imaginable, this sentence does not serve justice. He should be incarcerated the maximum amount of time allowed by law- he used up his “second chances” a long time ago.

    I’m so sorry to the families, friends, and loved ones of the victims. I’m so sorry this happened, you’ll be in my prayers forever.

    Ajay- you deserve every moment of your prison sentence. You were warned, you were offered every chance under the sun to get help, and you rejected those offers. You manipulated the system at every stop, and your parents did you no favors by attempting to mitigate, minimize, and control the narrative every time there were consequences to your actions. This is what happens when you choose to ignore those trying to help you. See ya in 30 buddy- we’ll be waiting for your call, again.

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    1. PS- the next time you feel compelled to complain about “all the hoops you have to jump through” and “how much it costs” and about “how hard everyone makes it” to resolve an OWI – I hope you think about this case and consider that every single instance of impaired driving can have this exact same deadly result- some people just get lucky and only get arrested….

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  8. Erin Zamora,
    Aren’t you the addict who lost custody of your son when he was 7 years old? Your poor old mother had to raise him.

    Both of these kids would be alive if they were wearing their seat belts.

    The crash was through a glass window, not a brick wall.

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    1. I’m pretty sure I saw bricks laying on the ground. Hitting something while going 50mph is an impact as if he was doing 100mph.

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    2. I’m sorry but who are you ??
      you know nothing about our family
      and she will forever be more of a mother then you or whoever this we ever be thank you !!!

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    3. What kind of person speaks to the mother of a dead child this way? She is in pain and grieving an unbearable loss. Her past, good or bad, has absolutely no bearing on what’s happened. Heaven forbid you ever have to feel the pain this woman is suffering and if so, I pray you never experience the callous cruelty you’ve displayed here anonymously. If you’re a family member of the young man convicted, I understand how painful it must be as well but lashing out at the victims families is not what a truly repentant person would want his family to be doing.

      Ms. Zamora, your pain is palpable and pray you find a way to live through your loss with some semblance of peace.

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      1. I get the impression she is the type to use this for sympathy…..she obviously didn’t care enough for her kids when she lost custody of them.

  9. Kenosha County Case Number 2023CT000317 State of Wisconsin vs. Erin M. Zamora
    Get a license!
    Kenosha County Case Number 2019CM000221 State of Wisconsin vs. Erin M. Zamora
    Stop stealing from stores!

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    1. You people are sickening! What happened to her son is NOT her fault it’s Ajay’s!! Have some respect for the deceased for christ sake!

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      1. It is her partly the mom’s fault, though. She seems like a POS given her CCAP.
        Like, how many kids does she have with different guys? Driving after revocation, retail theft…..like yeah, there is way more to the story here.

        Where was his father?

        Tragic situation but there is lots of blame here…but let’s be honest, those having kids at like 20 and that whole generation now….it’s not surprising.

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        1. she’s amazing once you get too know her
          Let’s stop leaving hate comments on someone who’s still grieving her very own son’s death pls .

          what does looking back at his moms past have to do with Ajay !!

          I grew up with Dylan and Dylan always loved his mom his family

          They don’t deserve this hate
          For both families deserve more 🤍

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          1. Once you “get to know her”?

            Please STFU. No one who has kids with tons of guys, is stealing shit in her late 30s according to CCAP and supposedly lost custody of her child is “amazing” once you get to know her.

            Sounds like the trainwrecks you see profiled on this site all the time….professional victims, always an excuse as to why they committed their behavior, etc.

            This basically describes both sides of this case. Bad parenting….no responsibility. There are a 100 mothers like this in Kenosha….

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            1. again this is about two families who lost there children
              please get out the comments with negative comments

              Justice was served for them 🤍

              Dylan and Jenna were both amazing young people

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              1. Wow whomever posted the original comment is a total waste of space. What a loser!! “I’m mad and am gonna pout and victim blame”
                Such a douche

        2. Why anything about me is important to
          You or anyone else is beyond me but my parenting or who I am or my past my kids is none of anyone’s business. Ajay and his family did this crime!

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          1. Erin, why anything about YOU is important to anyone else, is because you repeatedly made blanket comments blaming Ajays family as well as degrading all Italians. If you don’t want mud slung at your parenting or lack thereof, then don’t do it to others, because you sure as hell are not a perfect person nor a perfect parent.

    2. I say try ajay for death row. But me personally I can’t wait till the little bitch hangs himself so I can piss on his grave during the funeral 💨💨💨 smoking ajay pack rn😂😂😂

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      1. You’d probably have to wait until AFTER the funeral to “piss on his grave.”
        What does “smoking ajay pack rn” mean? Please decode.

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        1. Nah during the funeral. Anybody gotta problem with it can catch an asswhooping. And it mean I hope they burn his fucking body before his bitch ass family can pick him up.

          1. Okay, have it your way, but the casket won’t be in the grave until AFTER the funeral. So judge the wind direction carefully before you start “pissing” upwards.

  10. AJ got what he deserved! He had 1 too many chances too straighten his shit out but chose not too so this is what happens.

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  11. Kenosha County Case Number 2019CM000221 State of Wisconsin vs. Erin M. Zamora

    The defendant Erin M. Zamora was found guilty of the following charge(s) in this case.

    Retail Theft – Intentionally Take (<=$500), a class A misdemeanor, Wisconsin Statutes 943.50(1m)(b).

    Are you so high you forgot about your retail theft conviction?

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    1. IS THIS UR BUISNESS ???

      She lost her son

      Ajay DESERVES WHAT HE GOT !!!
      fix you’re own family problems and get the fuck out of this one
      LOOK AT AJAYS FAMILY RECORD IF YOU RLLY WANT TO GET TO COMPARING PLS
      I WILL PULL EVRYTHING
      HIS DEADBEAT MOM AND DAD GRANDPARENTS
      COME ON

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    2. You’re such a dumbass, only a real loser would victim blame.
      Get a life, glad AJ is rotting in prison.

    3. What does theft have to do with this. Also the young lady in Ohio who ran into a building and killed her boyfriend and friend got life shes 17. Look it up Mackenzie Shirilla. So he got off easy.

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  12. Is Ajay a giver or taker? I’ll bet he’s a taker. After 30 years in prison, 50 year old Ajay’s prostate exams will interesting.

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  13. This is the problem with the world. The cruel words and judgments, about all parties, should have you hoping and praying that you can live a long and healthy life. Fate has something in store for us all.

  14. Maybe this little shit can make pizza In prison for his fellow inmates. Justice has been served, 30 years is the perfect sentence.

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  15. This might be an unpopular opinion but I believe Ajay should be allowed out of prison a few times a year to speak to high schooler’s. The benefits would be two-fold: 1) His personal testimony could be powerful enough to prevent future drunk drivers. 2) It would honor the victims by keeping names and life stories prevalent.

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  16. Sometimes the creatures crawl out from under the rocks like in this case.
    A child made some horrible decisions and he will pay.
    When u say nasty vile things about this boy you also say it about everybody who cared for him
    Please have respect for them and yourselves

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    1. Yes, we should show respect to his mommy, Amber. Believe she is facing some felonies herself. This family is TRASH!

        1. Are you stupid? Her son was just sentenced to 30 years in prison. His life probably would have taken a different trajectory if he didn’t have shit parents.

  17. Too lenient. Anybody that drives drunk, and kills somebody deserves a harsher sentence than that.
    And I bet plenty of you making comments, drive over the limit yourselves. This should be a wake up call,
    but it won’t be. Why? Because you can’t fix stupid. And people that cause the same harm TEXTING, deserve
    the same fate. Wake the fuck up people!!!

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    1. Yes – and driving recklessly even if totally sober and clean also ….
      Reckless driving is Attempted Murder – multiple.

  18. Their lives were only with 15 years a piece. Sad. He chose to drink and drive. He chose to do it even after doing it before. He will get out in his 50’s, he will have a chance to make a life for himself in some way. His victims won’t. No college graduation. No careers. No weddings. No opportunity to become parents. He stole that from them. A selfish child that thinks of nothing but himself.

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  19. Sad all the way around. No winners here.

    Another judge jumping a plea deal. Pretty soon there’s going to be zero reason to take a plea around these parts.

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    1. The Italian should have taken his chance and pleaded not guilty. a guilty verdict may have resulted in less time.

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  20. May all involved seek the Lord in the heavens to bring his Grace and mercy beyond what we can comprehend.

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  21. The part that sucks about alcohol is it clouds your decision-making to drive. It is not as if he had his unimpaired brain making the decision to drive. His ability to make that decision was also impaired by the alcohol. I put some blame everywhere though mostly him. I was around when the drinking age 18. If I knew I was driving, I bought 1 beer and nursed it for hours until it was warm and only drank half. The alcohol can hit you hard unexpectedly though at times if you have more than 2. If you are a passenger, just take the keys away if your driver drunk. If all of you drunk, then take the Uber. 3 lives ruined or over because of that night. Complete tragedy and this a good kid outside of one poor decision. I do not blame the mother asking for more than 12 years. Her life is ruined forever. She will never have peace.

  22. He should just been smoking, right Heywood? LOL! Ignorance is your forte!

    If that word is above you, look it up in dictionary. You seem to know right where the “F” words are.

  23. As a Behind the Wheel instructor this situation should remind us all never take the risk of getting in the car in which you are aware the driver is impaired. If your gut feeling is that the consequence could be bad. Base your Decision on your gut. Like was in prior poster said call Uber, call a friend or family member. No matter how many times I stress this example to my students of what happens when poor choices are made unfortunately these type of under the influence fatalities will continue in the future until convicted drivers are given the harshest penalties. Don’t be impulsive be disciplined to make the right decisions. Remember the cliche nothing positive happens on roadways after midnight.

  24. What gives anyone the right to comment on this? Ya’ll are really hashing out some personal problems with grief ridden individuals and exposing your prejudices behind a screen instead of taking this tragedy for what it is. Why can’t we just give our condolences to all that have had to suffer these past 2 years and aim to make sure no one else has to go through such a soul sucking experience instead of hurting people who are already hurting?

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  25. You should be investigating his mother who has been charged with stealing several thousands of dollars from her employer.

  26. This whole posting and all the comments are so very sad. I think all of you posters should think about getting some counseling.

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  27. Articles state .23 others .28….. that young man was a maintenance drunk!! This was NOT a one off!
    To be at that level… shame on everyone in his life for not trying to get him sobered up.
    Now he has a life of prison and 2 souls on his docket……..

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  28. What upsets me about this situation is that this entire group of kids partied every weekend, and I can’t help but wonder how many of them got in their cars and drove after drinking. I’m not saying AJay isn’t responsible I believe he should be held accountable, and maybe 10 or 15 years would have been fair. But where is the conversation about the responsibility we all have to prevent these situations?

    As a mother, I’m going to teach my kids not only to never drink and drive, but to also never let their friends do it either. I’m going to teach them not to get in the car with someone who’s been drinking. We need to raise kids who have the courage to speak up and protect each other, even when it’s uncomfortable.

    Every single one of those kids partied every weekend. Every memory they post with the friends they lost involves drinking. I’m not saying drinking at 21 is abnormal. I’m not saying they were bad kids. I’m saying this behavior was normal for their group and that’s the problem.

    This whole situation is tragic for everyone involved, including AJay’s family. Why weren’t the kids in the back wearing seatbelts? I have so many questions, but at this point, what’s done is done. Their lives won’t come back. AJay made a terrible decision, but so did the rest of them they just didn’t face the same consequences. He became the one to pay the price for what all of them were doing regularly.

    I truly hope they all learn from this. I know some of that group is still drinking, and I just hope they’re not still driving.

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    1. You have made many TRUE and valid points and I completely wholeheartedly agree with you! They all knew the potential consequences and all made the unimpaired decision to get in the car driving or not. It is just devasting on all counts on what had happened to all involved families and friends that night.

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  29. This Pierangeli-Rizzo family is filled with people who think they are untouchable and that the rules do not apply to them. There have been multiple KCE articles about several family members. I am sure more is to come.

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City To Unveil “Keys To Kenosha” Architectural Tour At May 1 Press Conference

KENOSHA, Wis. — City officials and community partners are set to unveil a new initiative aimed at showcasing Kenosha’s architectural and cultural identity during a press conference scheduled for Friday, May 1. The event will mark the official launch of “Keys to Kenosha,” a planned architectural tour and cultural celebration designed to give residents and visitors behind-the-scenes access to some of the city’s

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Bradford Math Teacher Previously Accused Of Grooming Fired After Years Of Warnings, Quiet Transfer, And New Allegations From Students

Steven Edward Telkamp – Fired Bradford Math Teacher KENOSHA, Wis. — A Bradford High School math teacher at the center of repeated grooming allegations has been fired following a unanimous vote by the Kenosha Unified School District Board of Education, bringing an end to a controversy that critics say escalated only after years of ignored warnings and questionable decisions by district leadership. Steven

74-Year-Old Burlington Man Held on $75K Bail, Faces 35 Years in Prison in Kenosha County’s First Child Grooming Case

KENOSHA, Wis. — A 74-year-old Burlington man is facing serious felony charges in what authorities describe as a first-of-its-kind prosecution in Kenosha County under Wisconsin’s new child grooming law, after investigators say he repeatedly attempted to lure a 17-year-old girl into illegal activity. Ronald Joseph Richards, 74, of Burlington, was charged Monday with grooming of a child and soliciting a child for prostitution

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Chicago Man Accused Of 110 MPH Police Chase, Crashing Into Vehicle With Three People Inside, Facing Dozens Of Charges

Mikalos Jackson, 29, of Chicago(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — A 29-year-old Chicago man is in custody after prosecutors say he led police on a high-speed chase reaching 110 miles per hour, crashed into a vehicle carrying multiple people, and was later found with a firearm and THC. Mikalos Jackson, 29, of Chicago(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in

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Illinois Woman Accused Of Throwing Infant Headfirst Into Crib While Drunk, Faces Felony Child Abuse Charge

Loren Yanira Villalobos-Navarro, 38, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) SOMERS, Wis. — A 38-year-old Illinois woman is accused of throwing her infant daughter headfirst into a crib while heavily intoxicated, an incident that prompted a 911 call and a response from the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office late Saturday night. Loren Yanira Villalobos-Navarro, 38, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be

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Illinois Woman Accused Of Driving Into Oncoming Traffic, Swerving At Officer During Kenosha Chase, Dog Found Malnourished

Heather A. Demarr, 32, of Wadsworth, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 32-year-old Illinois woman accused of driving into oncoming traffic and swerving her vehicle at a police officer during an early-morning pursuit is being held on a $25,000 cash bond set Monday by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II. Heather A. Demarr, 32, of Wadsworth, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s

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Kenosha Man Accused of Large-Scale Drug Operation Faces Dozens of Years in Prison After $75,000 Bail Set

Timothy C. Washington, 40, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man accused of running a large-scale drug trafficking operation involving cocaine, THC, and other controlled substances was ordered held on $75,000 cash bail Monday by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II following a brief initial appearance. Timothy C. Washington, 40, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must

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Illinois Man Accused of High-Speed Police Chase, Crash, and Hit-and-Run Across Kenosha County

Donyae D. Stingley, 21, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 21-year-old Illinois man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he led police on a dangerous, high-speed chase that spanned Pleasant Prairie and Kenosha, ultimately ending in a crash and foot pursuit before his arrest. Donyae D. Stingley, 21, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be

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Armed Robbery Attempt Alleged After Knife Incident at Kenosha Apartment; $50K Bail Set

Ahmaud R. Beal, 30, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man is accused of attempting to rob a woman at knifepoint outside her apartment, allegedly demanding money before brandishing a weapon, according to a newly filed criminal complaint. Ahmaud R. Beal, 30, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Two Women Charged After Chaotic Kenosha Porch Fight; Both Accused Of Assaulting Police Officer, Each Gets $10K Cash Bail

Monica L. Spann, 59, and Rubenia D. Jenkins, 31, Both of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — Two Kenosha women accused of attacking a police officer during a chaotic, multi-person disturbance on the city’s north side were each given $10,000 cash bail Monday by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II after prosecutors sought significantly higher amounts. Rubenia D. Jenkins Monica

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Fourth-Offense OWI Charge Filed After Near-Crash On Green Bay Road; “Bargain Bail Billy” Sets $5K Bail Despite $10K Request

Graciela Oviedo, 60, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha woman is facing a felony drunk driving charge after police say she nearly caused a crash on one of the city’s busiest corridors, with Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II setting $5,000 cash bail Monday—half of what prosecutors requested. Graciela Oviedo, 60, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You

Bargain Bail Billy Gets the Boot From Restraining Orders After Plaza Killing

KENOSHA, Wis. — In the wake of the killing of Makayla Rutka Plaza, Kenosha County court officials have quietly removed Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II from handling restraining order cases, a significant shift in courtroom duties that follows mounting scrutiny of his decisions. Kenosha County Eye previously reported that on the Monday following Plaza’s death — a day when restraining

GOP Chair Sandy Rowe Wiedmeyer Steps Back From Party Operations To Focus On State Senate Run

KENOSHA, Wis. — Sandy Rowe Wiedmeyer, the chairman of the Republican Party of Kenosha County, announced Monday that she is stepping back from the day-to-day operations of the local party as she continues her campaign for the 11th State Senate District. Wiedmeyer said the move is intended to ensure transparency and fairness as she seeks higher office while still holding a leadership role

Wisconsin Republicans Push Bill To End Emissions Testing, Blame Chicago Pollution For SE Wisconsin Air Issues

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A group of Wisconsin Republican congressmen on Monday unveiled new federal legislation aimed at eliminating emissions testing requirements in southeastern Wisconsin, arguing the region is being unfairly penalized for pollution drifting in from out of state. U.S. Reps. Bryan Steil, Scott Fitzgerald, Glenn Grothman, and Tom Tiffany announced the introduction of the “Fair Air Standards Act,” a bill designed to

Milwaukee Alderman Peter Burgelis Launches Congressional Bid, Targets Steil Over Costs, Trump Agenda

SOUTHEAST WISCONSIN, Wis. — Peter Burgelis, a Milwaukee alderman, announced Sunday that he is running for Congress in Wisconsin’s 1st Congressional District, positioning himself as a challenger to incumbent Bryan Steil and focusing his campaign on affordability and accountability. Burgelis, who currently serves on the Milwaukee Common Council, emphasized his experience in local government, saying his time as an alderman has centered on

Kenosha Police Identify Victim In Brutal 13th Avenue Homicide As New Details Emerge

KENOSHA, Wis. — Kenosha police have now identified the woman killed in a brutal northside attack as a 37-year-old Kenosha resident, confirming that the incident inside a home in the 5700 block of 13th Avenue is being investigated as a homicide. As Kenosha County Eye first reported, officers responded to the scene around 3:30 p.m. Saturday for what was initially dispatched as an

Republican Sheriff Candidates Commit To Forum Hosted By Kenosha County Eye As June Date Nears

KENOSHA COUNTY, Wis. — Two of the three Republican candidates for Kenosha County sheriff have already committed to participating in an upcoming public forum hosted by Kenosha County Eye, with planning now underway as organizers await a response from the third candidate. Captain Tony Gonzalez and Captain James Beller have both confirmed they will attend the event, which is expected to draw a

Boat Engulfed In Flames At Southport Marina Late Friday Night

KENOSHA, Wis. — A boat erupted in flames at the Southport Marina Friday night, with the emergency call coming in around 9:45 p.m. reporting a vessel on fire along the city’s lakefront. Fire crews responded to the marina area near the 5800 block of 3rd Avenue, where they found a boat fully engulfed in flames while docked among other vessels. Radio traffic from

Dear Republican Party Of Kenosha County — You Can’t Claim To Back The Blue While Ignoring About 98% Of Them: Opinion

Rumors are circulating that the Republican Party of Kenosha County may issue a pre-primary endorsement in the upcoming sheriff’s race — potentially backing the incumbent. If that happens, it would come at a time when confidence in the current leadership appears deeply fractured within local law enforcement. The Kenosha County Deputy Sheriff’s Association delivered a decisive message, with about 95% backing Captain Tony

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Drunken Hit-And-Run Nearly Kills Bicyclist; Judge Jodi Meier Sets $25K Bail Despite $200K Request, Father—KUSD Coach—Accused Of Cover-Up

Joseph A. Trifone, 25, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — Joseph A. Trifone, 25, of Kenosha, and his father, Joseph M. Trifone, 56, also of Kenosha, were both arrested April 20 and released April 22 after a drunken, near-fatal hit-and-run left a bicyclist with catastrophic injuries, with Judge Jodi Meier setting the son’s bail at $25,000 cash despite prosecutors requesting $200,000.

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Illinois Man Allegedly Leads 80 MPH Police Chase While High, Claims He Was Being Followed

Luke X. Bambenek, 29, of Elgin, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — An Illinois man accused of driving under the influence and leading police on a dangerous early-morning chase appeared in court Thursday, where Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II set a $10,000 cash bail despite a lower request from prosecutors. Luke X. Bambenek, 29, of Elgin, Illinois(Kenosha County

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Kenosha Man Accused Of Threatening To “Blow Deputy’s Head Off” After Domestic Incident, Drugs Found In Home

Bonifacio Ventura, 70, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) SOMERS, Wis. — A Kenosha man is facing felony charges after authorities say a domestic disturbance escalated into a threat against a sheriff’s deputy during an early-morning response, according to a newly filed criminal complaint. Bonifacio Ventura, 70, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

LATEST NEWS

City To Unveil “Keys To Kenosha” Architectural Tour At May 1 Press Conference

KENOSHA, Wis. — City officials and community partners are set to unveil a new initiative aimed at showcasing Kenosha’s architectural and cultural identity during a press conference scheduled for Friday, May 1. The event will mark the official launch of “Keys to Kenosha,” a planned architectural tour and cultural celebration designed to give residents and visitors behind-the-scenes access to some of the city’s

Plus +

Bradford Math Teacher Previously Accused Of Grooming Fired After Years Of Warnings, Quiet Transfer, And New Allegations From Students

Steven Edward Telkamp – Fired Bradford Math Teacher KENOSHA, Wis. — A Bradford High School math teacher at the center of repeated grooming allegations has been fired following a unanimous vote by the Kenosha Unified School District Board of Education, bringing an end to a controversy that critics say escalated only after years of ignored warnings and questionable decisions by district leadership. Steven

74-Year-Old Burlington Man Held on $75K Bail, Faces 35 Years in Prison in Kenosha County’s First Child Grooming Case

KENOSHA, Wis. — A 74-year-old Burlington man is facing serious felony charges in what authorities describe as a first-of-its-kind prosecution in Kenosha County under Wisconsin’s new child grooming law, after investigators say he repeatedly attempted to lure a 17-year-old girl into illegal activity. Ronald Joseph Richards, 74, of Burlington, was charged Monday with grooming of a child and soliciting a child for prostitution

Plus +

Chicago Man Accused Of 110 MPH Police Chase, Crashing Into Vehicle With Three People Inside, Facing Dozens Of Charges

Mikalos Jackson, 29, of Chicago(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — A 29-year-old Chicago man is in custody after prosecutors say he led police on a high-speed chase reaching 110 miles per hour, crashed into a vehicle carrying multiple people, and was later found with a firearm and THC. Mikalos Jackson, 29, of Chicago(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in

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Illinois Woman Accused Of Throwing Infant Headfirst Into Crib While Drunk, Faces Felony Child Abuse Charge

Loren Yanira Villalobos-Navarro, 38, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) SOMERS, Wis. — A 38-year-old Illinois woman is accused of throwing her infant daughter headfirst into a crib while heavily intoxicated, an incident that prompted a 911 call and a response from the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office late Saturday night. Loren Yanira Villalobos-Navarro, 38, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be

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Illinois Woman Accused Of Driving Into Oncoming Traffic, Swerving At Officer During Kenosha Chase, Dog Found Malnourished

Heather A. Demarr, 32, of Wadsworth, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 32-year-old Illinois woman accused of driving into oncoming traffic and swerving her vehicle at a police officer during an early-morning pursuit is being held on a $25,000 cash bond set Monday by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II. Heather A. Demarr, 32, of Wadsworth, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s

Plus +

Kenosha Man Accused of Large-Scale Drug Operation Faces Dozens of Years in Prison After $75,000 Bail Set

Timothy C. Washington, 40, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man accused of running a large-scale drug trafficking operation involving cocaine, THC, and other controlled substances was ordered held on $75,000 cash bail Monday by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II following a brief initial appearance. Timothy C. Washington, 40, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must

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Illinois Man Accused of High-Speed Police Chase, Crash, and Hit-and-Run Across Kenosha County

Donyae D. Stingley, 21, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A 21-year-old Illinois man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he led police on a dangerous, high-speed chase that spanned Pleasant Prairie and Kenosha, ultimately ending in a crash and foot pursuit before his arrest. Donyae D. Stingley, 21, of Waukegan, Illinois(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be

Plus +

Armed Robbery Attempt Alleged After Knife Incident at Kenosha Apartment; $50K Bail Set

Ahmaud R. Beal, 30, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha man is accused of attempting to rob a woman at knifepoint outside her apartment, allegedly demanding money before brandishing a weapon, according to a newly filed criminal complaint. Ahmaud R. Beal, 30, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You must be logged in to view the rest of this article.

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Two Women Charged After Chaotic Kenosha Porch Fight; Both Accused Of Assaulting Police Officer, Each Gets $10K Cash Bail

Monica L. Spann, 59, and Rubenia D. Jenkins, 31, Both of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — Two Kenosha women accused of attacking a police officer during a chaotic, multi-person disturbance on the city’s north side were each given $10,000 cash bail Monday by Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II after prosecutors sought significantly higher amounts. Rubenia D. Jenkins Monica

Plus +

Fourth-Offense OWI Charge Filed After Near-Crash On Green Bay Road; “Bargain Bail Billy” Sets $5K Bail Despite $10K Request

Graciela Oviedo, 60, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) KENOSHA, Wis. — A Kenosha woman is facing a felony drunk driving charge after police say she nearly caused a crash on one of the city’s busiest corridors, with Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II setting $5,000 cash bail Monday—half of what prosecutors requested. Graciela Oviedo, 60, of Kenosha(Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office) You

Bargain Bail Billy Gets the Boot From Restraining Orders After Plaza Killing

KENOSHA, Wis. — In the wake of the killing of Makayla Rutka Plaza, Kenosha County court officials have quietly removed Court Commissioner William “Bargain Bail Billy” Michel II from handling restraining order cases, a significant shift in courtroom duties that follows mounting scrutiny of his decisions. Kenosha County Eye previously reported that on the Monday following Plaza’s death — a day when restraining

GOP Chair Sandy Rowe Wiedmeyer Steps Back From Party Operations To Focus On State Senate Run

KENOSHA, Wis. — Sandy Rowe Wiedmeyer, the chairman of the Republican Party of Kenosha County, announced Monday that she is stepping back from the day-to-day operations of the local party as she continues her campaign for the 11th State Senate District. Wiedmeyer said the move is intended to ensure transparency and fairness as she seeks higher office while still holding a leadership role

Wisconsin Republicans Push Bill To End Emissions Testing, Blame Chicago Pollution For SE Wisconsin Air Issues

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A group of Wisconsin Republican congressmen on Monday unveiled new federal legislation aimed at eliminating emissions testing requirements in southeastern Wisconsin, arguing the region is being unfairly penalized for pollution drifting in from out of state. U.S. Reps. Bryan Steil, Scott Fitzgerald, Glenn Grothman, and Tom Tiffany announced the introduction of the “Fair Air Standards Act,” a bill designed to

Milwaukee Alderman Peter Burgelis Launches Congressional Bid, Targets Steil Over Costs, Trump Agenda

SOUTHEAST WISCONSIN, Wis. — Peter Burgelis, a Milwaukee alderman, announced Sunday that he is running for Congress in Wisconsin’s 1st Congressional District, positioning himself as a challenger to incumbent Bryan Steil and focusing his campaign on affordability and accountability. Burgelis, who currently serves on the Milwaukee Common Council, emphasized his experience in local government, saying his time as an alderman has centered on

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