Letter: Molepske’s diversion program already highlights impartiality

To the Editor-

Molepske’s equitable, just, and compassionate approach is what Portage County needs as a judge.

I am the diversion coordinator with the Portage County District Attorney’s Office. I am writing to promote my endorsement of Louis Molepske as Circuit Court Judge Branch II.

Throughout nearly four years of employment at the district attorney’s office, I have personally witnessed Louis make a tremendous impact on the local criminal justice system.

This has been exhibited by his impartial, swift, and equitable approach to the handling of cases referred to the district attorney’s office. Specifically, Louis was instrumental in envisioning the diversion program, a program designed to provide lower-risk first-time offenders a voluntary alternative to a criminal conviction. The program allows individuals to fulfill a set of conditions designed to address, treat, or remedy issues specific to their offense and needs.

Louis’s vision came to fruition in 2018 and has helped hundreds of Portage County residents earn their way out of possible convictions, simultaneously providing victims relief. A prime example of this is nearly $120,000 has been returned to victims of crime in less than four years. This is expedited by forgoing strenuous and sometimes lengthy court processes.

To date, 456 individuals have completed the diversion program. Nearly 90 percent of people referred complete the program, and most do not get involved with the criminal system again. The program ultimately serves as a fundamental tool in holding clients accountable for their behavior, providing victims’ relief, and lessening the impact a conviction can have on one’s life.

Everything from employment, housing, and education can be hindered by simply one arrest. This program limits or eliminates the negative impact an arrest can have on someone’s life. Countless residents have changed their life through Louis’s approach to criminal justice.

After being a first-hand witness to Louis’s handling of cases, I know he will exhibit these successful qualities as a judge. If he can make this much of a positive impact as district attorney, one can only imagine what he could do for Portage County as a judge.

For that reason, there is only one choice on April 5. That choice is supporting Louis Molepske for Judge.

Bryan Peil
Waupaca

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