Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial Criticizes DA’s Handling of Vandalism Case, Urges Lawmakers to Protect Memorials
MADISON, Wisconsin — The Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial (WLEM) Board of Directors has voiced profound disappointment with the Dane County District Attorney’s Office for its handling of a recent vandalism case, while urging state lawmakers to pass new protections for memorial sites.
Memorial Defaced During Protest
The controversy stems from a June 14, 2025 incident during the “No Kings” protest in Madison, where the Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial was vandalized with black spray paint. Officials say the graffiti included derogatory phrases and violent symbols targeting law enforcement.
The memorial, located on the State Capitol grounds, honors 294 fallen officers who died in the line of duty. WLEM leaders called the damage a direct insult to survivors and families of the fallen. Out of respect for those families, the board chose not to release photos of the graffiti.
DA’s Office Referred Case to Restorative Court
Two suspects, Nathan Schilling and Catherine Thoemke, were initially charged, and WLEM was recognized as a victim in the case. But on August 14, a representative of the DA’s Office informed WLEM that the case would be referred to the Community Restorative Court, a diversion program designed for lesser offenses.
The WLEM board opposed the referral, calling it inappropriate given the severity of the crime. Despite their objections, the office moved forward with approval from the Department of Administration, which designated itself the sole victim due to the memorial’s location on state property.
The decision was made in less than three business days, which WLEM argues violated its constitutional right to confer as a victim. The board has since filed a formal complaint with the Wisconsin DOJ’s Crime Victim Review Board.
A Pattern of Vandalism
This marks the fourth vandalism of the memorial since 2017, following incidents in 2017, 2020, and 2023. WLEM says the repeated attacks have cost thousands of dollars in repairs and inflicted an emotional toll on families. In each case, suspects were given deferred prosecution or similar deals, with none facing full accountability.
Call for Stronger Laws
In response, WLEM is backing Senate Bill 394 and Assembly Bill 401, legislation that would increase criminal penalties for damaging or defacing historical and commemorative properties.
“We call on lawmakers, law enforcement organizations, and the public to support these bills and ensure that acts of vandalism against memorials are met with appropriate consequences,” the board said in a statement.
The Wisconsin Law Enforcement Memorial says it remains committed to honoring fallen officers while pressing for legislative reforms to better protect sacred sites. For more updates on Wisconsin law, crime, and community issues, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.