Press play to hear his story In Wisconsin, the numbers paint a clear picture long before anyone steps inside a courtroom. A study from the Institute for Research on Poverty at the University of Wisconsin–Madison found that 89 percent of physical custody awards historically went to mothers in Wisconsin and Michigan. Nationally, nearly 80 percent of custodial parents are mothers, while fathers hold only about 20 percent of custodial arrangements. Even when fathers actively p

Manitowoc County Courthouse The sentencing of Stephanie Snyder in Manitowoc County on Monday has raised questions about judicial consistency, prosecutorial decision-making, and the meaning of the phrase “interest of the public.” Snyder received one year in the Manitowoc County Jail for First Degree Reckless Homicide. While free on bail for the homicide charge, she was charged with seven new felony offenses, many of which were connected to ongoing drug activity. Residents are

"Vets Say No!" Rally. (Credit: Markola Williams) "Vets Say No!" Rally (Credit: Markola Williams) At the intersection of Calumet Avenue and Dewey Street, a group of local residents and veterans gathered on Veterans Day for Manitowoc’s “Vets Say No!” rally, part of a nationwide movement opposing the militarization of U.S. cities and calling for stronger protections of democracy and civil rights. Jill Iverson and Val Jean Marco of Progressive Lakeshore People, a Manitowoc-based

Judge Jerilyn Dietz nomination for an "Ally" award The recent debate in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, has centered on the efficiency of the judicial system and the question of accountability for the county’s low recidivism rates. Many have criticized Circuit Court Commissioner Patricia Koppa for what they perceive as leniency during bail hearings. However, a deeper look suggests that the responsibility extends beyond the commissioner, pointing toward the presiding judges whose polici

While the community scrutinizes Commissioner Koppa for bail decisions, the judges who set policy and actively participate in recovery organizations remain largely unexamined.