by: Jason Luczak, Patrick Knight and Ray Dall’Osto

There are a number of criminal offenses that are commonly known as "white collar crimes.”  These generally involve the theft of money or misappropriation of funds and other forms of fraud that are committed using non-violent actions. Wire fraud and mail fraud are related offenses that are included in this category. However, many people are unaware of exactly what wire fraud is and what types of actions can result in criminal charges being filed against an individual or business entity. 

Fraud involves taking another person or entity's money, property, or protected information through deceptive means. Unlike traditional theft or robbery, where the victim does not give consent to being deprived of their property, fraud crimes typically involve deception or false pretenses to obtain a victim’s property, where the victim may have thought the transaction was legitimate.  Wire fraud is a type of fraud that uses communication networks, such as the internet, telephone lines, or email. Depending on the specific nature of an offense, the communication networks used, and the victims involved, a person accused of wire fraud may face either federal charges or state criminal charges and civil liability as well.

by Nicole Masnica, Jason Luczak and Adam Schleis

As the world has become digitized, computer fraud and internet fraud are becoming increasingly common. Many people and companies engage in actions that are deceptive and are intentionally fraudulent, which cause users significant harm, such as by stealing confidential, personal and other important information, convincing people to turn over money or property, or gaining access to financial accounts. As knowledge of these types of activities increases, law enforcement agencies are taking steps to combat computer crimes. If you have been accused of one of these crimes, it is important to understand the severity of the charge and what penalties you may face if convicted.

Common Types of Computer Fraud

Fraud committed using computer systems or over the internet may take many forms, including:

By: Attorney Adam Schleis 

The Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution provides Americans with the right to bear arms. While many have interpreted this law in different ways, it has been generally agreed that people in the United States are allowed to own and carry firearms. However, the specific laws regarding gun possession vary from state to state. Wisconsin's gun laws are less restrictive than some states, and most people are allowed to possess firearms, while concealed weapons can be carried by those who have a concealed carry weapons (CCW) license. Violations of these laws may result in criminal charges for illegal weapons possession. Wisconsin residents and visitors to the state will want to be sure to understand the specific laws that apply to gun possession and the penalties for violations.

Criminal Charges Related to Firearm Possession

While ownership and possession of firearms is generally allowed in Wisconsin, there are some situations where a person may face criminal charges for possessing a gun. Firearm possession is prohibited for people who have been convicted of felonies, people who have been found not guilty of felonies due to mental disease or defect, people subject to involuntary commitment orders, and people who are subject to restraining orders in situations involving accusations of domestic violence. Possession of a firearm by a person who is not permitted to do so is a Class G felony.

By: Attorney Adam Schleis

There are a variety of situations where family members may seek protection against domestic violence or abuse. A domestic abuse restraining order is a court order designed to protect domestic violence victims from suffering harm. These orders may be issued as part of a family law proceeding such as a divorce or child custody case, or they may be sought in other situations where a person has experienced abuse and needs protection. In situations where a person has been served with a domestic abuse restraining order, it is important to understand the penalties for violating the order.

Restraining Orders and Injunctions in Wisconsin

A person who has allegedly been the victim of domestic abuse may file a petition seeking a restraining order against their alleged abuser. Domestic abuse may include any actions taken by a person against a member of their family, including their spouse or ex-spouse, their unmarried partner, a person they previously had a dating relationship with, a co-parent, a disabled adult who is in their care, or another person in their household. Abuse may constitute any intentional infliction of pain or physical injury, sexual assault, stalking, or property damage. If a person allegedly committed abuse against a child, the child's parent, stepparent, or legal guardian may file a petition on the child's behalf.

By Attorney Ray Dall’Osto and Attorney Jaclyn Kallie

Attorney Raymond M. Dall'Osto and Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP were retained a number of years ago by Daryl Holloway’s family to conduct a postconviction investigation into his felony sexual assault convictions.  After a careful review of the evidence, previous testing and methodology, new DNA testing was requested by Attorney Dall’Osto.  DNA expert Dr. Alan Friedman was retained as a consultant. 

Attorney Dall’Osto and the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office, represented by Asst. DA Norman Gahn, had numerous exchanges and meetings over a number of years, including meeting at the Wisconsin State Crime Lab.  ADA Gahn ultimately agreed to the defense request for new testing, which showed that there may have been a different source of the seminal fluid evidence obtained from the assault victims.  Dr. Friedman recommended that further DNA testing be conducted, using the Y-STR method.