Wisconsin Clergy Abuse Probe Report Promised
Attorney General Josh Kaul pledged to release findings on the statewide investigation into faith leader abuse.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Sex Crimes
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The Wisconsin Department of Justice expects to publish its final report on clergy abuse before the attorney general's current term ends. Since launching the probe in 2021, the state has reviewed 333 reports of misconduct.
Why it matters
The investigation serves as a critical effort to address systemic abuse claims within religious institutions. Officials opted for a thorough review process over strict adherence to earlier timelines to ensure comprehensive documentation.
The state investigation has processed 333 reports, leading to four formal prosecutions. This includes the high-profile case of Thomas Ericksen, who received a 30-year prison sentence in 2019.
The players
Josh Kaul
The current Attorney General of Wisconsin who is overseeing the state's investigation into allegations of clergy abuse.
Eric Toney
A candidate for Wisconsin attorney general who has expressed an intent to continue the current investigation if elected.
Thomas Ericksen
A former faith leader who was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2019 following reports of abuse.
The details
Attorney General Josh Kaul declined to issue subpoenas for church documents, instead attempting to access records sealed during a 2015 Milwaukee Archdiocese settlement. A U.S. District Court judge denied the state's request for those specific materials.
Timeline
The Milwaukee Archdiocese settlement occurred in 2015.
Thomas Ericksen was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2019.
The Department of Justice investigation was launched in 2021.
The Attorney General election takes place on November 3, 2026.
Legal Context
The struggle to access records linked to the 2015 Milwaukee Archdiocese settlement highlights the legal hurdles in clergy abuse investigations. This case follows a pattern of state-level inquiries attempting to pierce the confidentiality of prior church-related legal agreements.
The final report may provide survivors with new clarity regarding their reports submitted to the state. Residents can anticipate updates on the status of these cases as the attorney general prepares to finalize the investigation before leaving office.
The takeaway
The investigation highlights the complexities of state-led inquiries into private religious records. Survivors and the public remain focused on how the state will address the findings presented in the anticipated final report.
What happens next
The next Attorney General election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Further reading
For additional perspective on regional oversight, visit the Sex Crimes section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Journal Sentinel.
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