Milwaukee, WI
Police question Milwaukee city attorney settlements
IN BRIEF
- Police union criticized City Attorney Evan Goyke over police misconduct settlements.
- Cases included multimillion-dollar payouts and missed legal deadlines.
- Goyke defended settlement decisions as ethical and fiscally responsible.
Milwaukee’s city attorney is under scrutiny after the police officers’ union criticized the office’s decision to reach settlements in police misconduct cases.
In a letter to city officials, Milwaukee Police Association President Alex Ayala pointed to costly settlements City Attorney Evan Goyke’s office approved and the union says raise questions over the office’s legal defense of police officers.
The targets of the criticisms include an assistant city attorney who missed a deadline in a case that ended in a $185,000 settlement and the office’s decision not to fight another case that ended in a $2.5 million settlement.
“It is not clear to us whether the City Attorney’s Office currently has a litigator with sufficient expertise or competence to actually litigate complex civil rights cases through jury trial,” Ayala’s letter to Goyke reads.
In a statement, Goyke defended his office’s work and said his office “remains committed to lawful, ethical and professional service, careful stewardship of taxpayer resources, and ensuring that the City of Milwaukee acts within the bounds of the law.”
“As an elected office, the City Attorney is accountable to the voters and has a professional obligation to provide independent, objective legal advice to City officials and departments,” he said. “Our attorneys make decisions based on the law, the facts and their ethical duties. We are charged with providing our clients with the highest level of legal service, and I am confident we meet that standard.”
In the statement, Goyke, in turn, voiced his disappointment that the MPA and its attorneys did not engage directly with him.
“I know them, we’ve met previously and I’ve offered a direct line to me if issues arise,” he said. “It’s unfortunate they’ve ignored that invitation and engaged in a political game instead.”
Since Goyke started a four-year term as city attorney in April 2024, his office has agreed to large settlements in the cases for Danny Wilber and Keishon Thomas. Both are among the city’s most expensive settlements ever.
Wilber’s was for $6.96 million and is the second largest ever. It was not mentioned by the police union. It came after the man spent almost 18 years in prison and was released after a court deemed his court hearing was unfair.
The settlement in Thomas’ case, however, was one of three cases the police union pointed to.
Thomas was a 20-year-old Milwaukee man who in 2022 died of a drug overdose while in police custody for about 16 hours. On Dec. 2, a $2.5 million settlement was approved in that case.
It came after Thomas spent 16 hours in police custody before dying. Officers were convicted of criminal charges in the incident and faced department discipline for their inaction. Officers failed to check on Thomas’ condition and did not send him to the hospital even after he told officers he ingested drugs.
The Thomas case was resolved quickly as it seemed likely the city would lose a verdict, Goyke’s statement said. Engaging in a lengthy litigation would “only delay the outcome, risk incurring greater costs, and withholding settlement from the children of a man that died while in the City’s care,” the statement said.
The other case mentioned was that of Sedric Smith, whom the city settled with for $180,000. That came after his lawsuit said he was stabbed by a man police failed to remove a knife from.
That occurred in 2024 when Smith was working as a hospital security guard, according to court records. It came after Smith and other security restrained a man who had become threatening toward him.
When police arrived, they called an ambulance for the man and did not take away a knife in his belongings, according to the court records. The man was taken to the hospital Smith worked at and later stabbed him.
Smith filed a lawsuit in February, and an assistant city attorney missed a response deadline in the case. U.S. District Judge J.P. Stadtmueller, who was overseeing the case, was critical of the missed deadlines.
In a court filing, Assistant City Attorney Naomi Sanders cited staffing shortages, a hefty caseload and a staffer failing to submit deadlines to her calendar as among the issues she was facing.
The case was headed to a default judgment before the city and attorney’s office reached the settlement.
Goyke acknowledged and took the responsibility of the error made in the Smith case, noting that there were “consequences for the error and improvements implemented to ensure it does not happen again.”
Ayala did not respond to a Journal Sentinel request for comment.
A spokesperson for the Milwaukee Police Department referred questions to the police union and Goyke’s office.
The union’s decision to point to the cases of Keishon Thomas and Isaiah Taylor drew criticism from the attorney who represented both.
To fight the Thomas case and others Ayala highlighted would be a waste of taxpayer money, attorney Mark Thomsen said.
“The Milwaukee Police Association should not be defending officers and former officers that pled guilty or were found responsible for their criminal conduct,” said Thomsen, an attorney with Gingras, Thomsen and Wachs. “The reputational harm to the Milwaukee police officers were the result of the officer’s criminal conduct, not the resolution of a case.”
In his letter, Ayala said Goyke’s handling of the Thomas case was part of the reason he was questioning the city attorney’s legal representation for officers. Ayala described the case as “very defensible.” He suggested it should’ve been taken to a federal jury trial.
“We believe that ineffective legal representation is the real reason that cases like Thomas are settled for astronomical sums,” he said.
The union should be “ashamed” of its defense of the officers involved in the case, Thomsen told the Journal Sentinel.
Thomsen also represented another case Ayala pointed to, that of Isaiah Taylor, the son of Lena Taylor, a Milwaukee County circuit judge and former member of the Wisconsin State Senate. The city paid out $350,000 in the Taylor case.
Taylor’s lawsuit said the officers racially profiled him and he was subject to unreasonable seizure and search.
At the time of Taylor’s arrest, he was 16 and delivering a turkey to a neighbor in December 2015 when two officers stopped him.
Officers frisked him, searched his bag and detained him in their squad car while they checked to see if he had any outstanding warrants, according to court records. Robberies had been reported in the area beforehand.
Officers involved in his arrest were initially cleared by a jury, but a federal appeals court granted Taylor a new jury trial on appeal. The city then settled the case.
Thomsen said the officers’ actions were unjustified and illegal.
The police union has previously not shied from criticizing the city’s handling of police misconduct settlements, which have a long history of being costly in Milwaukee.
In 2021, the city approved a $750,000 settlement in the case of former Milwaukee Bucks player Sterling Brown, after police grew confrontational and aggressive, including using a taser on him. Police body camera footage showed Brown staying calm throughout the incident and led to a rework of several police policies.
The police union and the Milwaukee Police Supervisors Organization were critical of that settlement, in the months before its final approval.
“We have no confidence in your ability to legally and ethically represent our members on, at the very least, this case,” a joint letter to then-City Attorney Tearman Spencer read in 2020.
The city has settled at least 290 of the cases since 1986, according to data provided by the City Attorney’s Office. That totals over $65.5 million.
At times, the cases’ costs have increased as the city has hired outside legal counsel to fight them. For instance, in 2025, the city hired a Chicago-based law firm for the Danny Wilber case that ended in a settlement.
That’s been the case from before Goyke’s tenure as well. In 2017, then-City Attorney Grant Langley spent $1.5 million to help with an illegal strip search lawsuit.
The city is self-insured, which means taxpayers bear the costs of any settlements.
July 3 drone show at McKinley Beach
Watch the first-ever July 3 drone show at McKinley Beach in Milwaukee.
Milwaukee County will again opt for drones over fireworks for its Independence Day festivities this summer.
The county had its first-ever Fourth of July drone show in 2025, with officials saying at the time that drones would be better for the environment, safer and less costly than fireworks.
The show costs about $150,000 less than fireworks, Milwaukee County officials told the Journal Sentinel this week.
“Milwaukee County is at its best when we come together to create memorable, inclusive experiences for everyone,” County Executive David Crowley said in an April news release. “This drone show is another example of how we’re investing in our parks, our neighborhoods and our shared sense of community pride.”
How did residents react to last year’s drone show?
Milwaukee County Parks Executive Director Guy Smith said in a news release last year the show is “an exciting and environmentally conscious way to celebrate our community.”
“Unlike traditional fireworks, drone shows reduce noise and air pollution while still delivering an unforgettable experience,” Smith said. “It’s about making memories and ensuring everyone feels welcome in these shared spaces.”
But the Journal Sentinel polled readers after last year’s show and a majority responded that they would prefer the county bring back fireworks.
This year’s show will debut pyrotechnic drone technology, adding spark effect for an “even more dynamic and visually stunning performance,” the news release says.
How long is the Milwaukee drone show?
The show is 45 minutes long and features 900 drones, county officials said. It is scheduled for 9:15 p.m. July 3 along the lakefront at McKinley Beach.
Milwaukee police audit shows Flock camera uses
The Milwaukee Police Department released a sample Flock camera audit showing outlier uses tied to serious crimes as scrutiny continues over officer misuse and community privacy concerns.
MILWAUKEE – The Milwaukee Police Department is giving the public a closer look at how officers use license plate reader cameras, part of an effort to be more transparent about how the technology affects community safety.
What we know:
For the first time, FOX6 got a look at a sample of audit results from the MPD involving the license plate reader system, also known as Flock.
The transparency effort comes after former officer Josue Ayala was charged with using the license plate readers to track someone he was dating and that person’s ex. Earlier this month, the department said a second officer was under investigation for possible misuse of the Flock camera system.
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX LOCAL Mobile app for iOS or Android
On Thursday, May 28, FOX6 obtained MPD’s Flock audit report from April. It is something the department does every month.
In the report, MPD shared 24 “outlier uses” of the system. Those are possible red flags. The list is not all of them, but it gives a glimpse into how MPD uses the Flock system and how the department checks for misuse.
Of the 24 outlier uses, some plate numbers were associated with a wanted homicide suspect, a felony narcotics trafficking suspect and a suspect vehicle used in the abduction of a 5-year-old. According to the audit, that vehicle was located, the child was returned safely and a suspect was arrested.
The audit also listed a homicide investigation in which detectives developed plate numbers for both a suspect and victim, as well as a plate connected to a person wanted for second-degree sexual assault who was later arrested.
What they’re saying:
“Those audit logs are what was used to hold the officer accountable,” said Paris Lewbel, Flock Safety spokesperson.
Lewbel said Flock Safety is partnered with 220 law enforcement agencies in Wisconsin.
“We think it is important that communities are talking about their technology and how they use it,” Lewbel said.
SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News
The company does not release how many cameras there are, but Lewbel said there have been fewer than 15 misuse cases across the country among the 140,000 users on the platform.
“Within the FLOCK system from day one, we built an immutable audit log in the system that allows law enforcement command staff and internal affairs in these cases to be able to see exactly what is being searched in the law enforcement system and FLOCK system specifically,” Lewbel said.
Dig deeper:
In Milwaukee, license plate readers have faced pushback from people who fear the data could be misused. Critics have called the system an invasion of privacy, saying it tracks innocent people as the debate over how the cameras are used continues.
FOX6 asked the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office on Thursday whether the second officer under investigation had been charged. The office replied, “not at this time.”
What you can do:
The full list of outliers from the audit is available on the FOX Local app.
The Source: FOX6 obtained the Milwaukee Police Department’s Flock audit report and utilized prior coverage.
Every week, Milwaukee With Kids answers a simple question for families across the area: What are we going to do this weekend? From indoor activities to outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered. For the full weekend list, make sure to visit the Milwaukee With Kids website.
Featured event
Summer Reading Kickoff
Milwaukee Public Library | Central Branch
May 30 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Kick off a summer of learning with hands-on activities for kids and teens, special exhibits and early registration for the summer reading program. Special guests and partners include Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Discovery World, Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum and Urban Ecology Center.
Up close with animals
Summer Exhibit: Powerful Pollinators
Milwaukee County Zoo
Through Oct. 4
Explore life-sized animatronic pollinators and discover how the Zoo helps protect them through native gardens, honeybee hives, and conservation initiatives. Entry fee: $4 after general zoo admission.
Raptor Encounter
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center | Bayside
May 30 | 1-2 p.m.
Come to the Great Hall to see two birds from the nature center’s raptor program. During this meet-and-greet experience, you can talk with raptor handlers about the specific skills, traits and adaptations that are unique to that bird. The program educates about raptor ecology, conservation and these birds’ important roles in the ecosystem, with an emphasis on hawks, owls, eagles and falcons, plus an American Crow. Free with membership or admission.
Strong body, strong mind
MKE REC Family Day of Play
Wick Playfield
May 30 | 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Families are invited to enjoy 10+ engaging activities, including an obstacle course, bubble bash, lava land, crafts, games and various types of sports equipment available for free play. The day also features delicious food available for purchase, raffle drawings for amazing prizes and live music filling the air. You’re welcome to bring a picnic lunch, but a limited number of tables and chairs will be available, so bring your own if you have them.
Moms Mental Health Initiative Summer Social
Wilson Park
May 30 | 9 a.m.-Noon
The fifth annual event doubles as a celebration of MMHI’s 10 years supporting the strength of the organization’s participants and the immeasurable power of togetherness. Funds raised from the silent auction, pluck-a-duck, raffle and donations will allow MMHI to continue offering hope and help to perinatal people struggling in Southeast Wisconsin and Dane County.
Music and movement
MSO Sensory-Friendly Concert: Musical Influencers
Bradley Symphony Center
May 31 | 2:30 p.m.
Good times and great music will be trending as onstage influencers from Pink Umbrella Theater introduce you to some of the most influential composers of all time. This special performance is designed for people of any age on the autism spectrum or with a sensory sensitivity and their families, but all are welcome!
Concert modifications include dimmed house lights remaining on during the performance, flexible seating, relaxed house rules, on-stage hosts, available sensory kits, noise-reduction headphones, quiet areas, concert social narratives and more. Patrons are encouraged to come early and enjoy an hour of special pre-concert activities.
Kid Boogie Down
The Cooperage
May 31 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Get your groove on as DJ Lukewarm introduces young audiences to genres ranging from classic disco and funk to modern hits synced with matching music videos. Plus, you’ll enjoy lots of kid-friendly fun: music, foggy bubbles, videos, temporary tattoos, a ring toss, snacks, cotton candy, and a vintage clothing and toy pop-up shop. Grab a four-pack of tickets for a $10+ discount.
Ferns, fossils and trees
FernGully: The Last Rainforest
Oriental Theatre
May 30-31 | Noon
Enjoy this family-friendly classic as Milwaukee Film wraps up its “Ani-May” movie series. When a sprite named Crysta shrinks a human boy named Zak down to her size, he vows to help the magical fairy folk stop a greedy logging company from destroying their home: the pristine rainforest known as FernGully. Zak and his new friends fight to defend FernGully from lumberjacks and the vengeful spirit they accidentally unleash after chopping down a magic tree.
Tree Climbing Festival
Riveredge Nature Center | Saukville
May 30 | 10 a.m.-Noon
Encounter the giants of the forest and explore trees from a new perspective as you climb into the canopy under the guidance of trained facilitators. Adults and children ages 7+ are invited to ascend to the top, swing from a branch or try a “bat hang.” Registration for this event includes 20 minutes of climb time, a scavenger hunt along the trails a naturalist-led hands-on nature investigation and access to picnic areas for lunch (please pack a lunch and be mindful of single-use plastic waste).
Family Fossil Hunting
Kenosha Public Museum
May 30 | 10 a.m.-Noon
Join Nick Wiersum from the Dinosaur Discovery Museum to explore the local fossils of Kenosha’s lakeshore. Meet at the museum to learn about the prehistoric life that called this area home and discuss how to locate fossils, then head out to the Simmon’s Island beach house to collect fossils of your own! The museum will provide you with any tools you will need, including a collection bag, fossil guide and magnifying glass.
-
Tennessee2 minutes agoAnswering Tennessee Football’s Burning Questions Less Than 100 Days Until Kickoff | Rocky Top Insider
-
Texas8 minutes agoWhy are Mississippi State softball fans wearing broccoli shirts vs Texas at WCWS?
-
Utah14 minutes agoVideo: Utah startup employs those right out of prison and celebrates new milestone – KSLTV.com
-
Vermont20 minutes agoWith two major vacancies, who will lead the Vermont House and Senate? – VTDigger
-
Virginia26 minutes agoNetflix casting Central Virginia singles for “Love on the Spectrum” after Danville man joins show
-
Washington32 minutes agoAs an AI tech-hub, Washington must lead with conscience
-
Wisconsin38 minutes ago
Wisconsin National Guard troops return after yearlong deployment in Middle East
-
West Virginia44 minutes agoWheeling launches West Virginia’s first recovery housing program for young adults
