Former Wisconsin Theatre Owner and Husband Charged With Sex Crimes Against Children, Court Records Reveal
POLK COUNTY, WISCONSIN — A former Wisconsin theater owner and her husband are facing multiple felony charges related to sexual crimes against children, according to newly filed criminal complaints in Polk County Circuit Court.
Officials confirmed that Amanda Whiting, a former Amery theater owner and youth pastor, and her husband Joshua Whiting have both been charged in connection with ongoing sexual misconduct involving juvenile victims.
Criminal Complaint Details Disturbing Allegations
According to court records reviewed by investigators, Amanda Whiting allegedly maintained a sexual relationship with a juvenile victim for over a year.
She is facing 15 criminal charges, including:
- Sexual intercourse with a child age 16 or older
- Child enticement
- Child abuse (intentionally causing harm)
- Causing mental harm to a child
Authorities say the alleged abuse occurred while Amanda Whiting was living in Amery, where she and her husband were known for running a small-town movie theater.
Husband Also Charged in the Case
Court documents show that Joshua Whiting faces charges of causing a child between 13 and 18 years old to view sexual activity.
The 28-page criminal complaint describes an extensive investigation that began after local law enforcement received reports of inappropriate contact between Amanda Whiting and a minor.
Investigators allege that Joshua Whiting was aware of certain incidents and failed to act — and in one case, participated in exposing a child to sexually explicit content.
Background and Employment History
According to the complaint, Amanda Whiting previously worked as a youth pastor in Minnesota and is currently employed at a Minnesota-based adoption and foster care agency.
Officials said her employment status is now under review pending the outcome of the criminal proceedings.
“The nature of these charges is deeply troubling, especially given the defendant’s prior work with children,” Polk County authorities stated.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Both defendants made their initial court appearances this week in Polk County Circuit Court, where prosecutors outlined the scope of the charges and the timeline of alleged abuse.
Amanda and Joshua Whiting remain out on bond under strict supervision, and their next court hearings are scheduled later this month.
If convicted, Amanda Whiting faces decades in prison, while Joshua Whiting could face several years behind bars for contributing to or enabling the crimes.
This developing case has shocked the Amery community, where the Whitings were once active business owners and youth leaders. For continued updates on Wisconsin court cases and community news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.