Charges expected by May in alleged City of Waukesha thefts

Published on: 4/23/2013

Three City of Waukesha employees being investigated for theft could face charges as early as May, according to District Attorney Brad Schimel.

The Waukesha County Sheriff's Department has referred charges to the DA for three individuals employed by the City of Waukesha's Public Works Department and a partial investigation is still ongoing, a spokesman for the department said.

Schimel said via email that the individuals are presumed innocent at this time and it is too early to say whether he will issue charges, or what charges will be considered.

He said the alleged thefts were of an "ongoing nature" and the total amount allegedly stolen exceeds $10,000. According to Wisconsin Statutes, theft exceeding $10,000 is considered a Class H felony, carrying a maximum prison sentence of six years.

Schimel said he was not aware of any allegations of extortion or bribery in the case and the DA's review should be completed by mid- to late-May.

Donna Whalen, director of human resources for the City of Waukesha, said that the employees have been on paid administrative leave since March 18. The city will conduct its own internal investigation when it receives the sheriff's investigative report, she said.