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Bill

SB 25

Relating to: court-issued criminal complaints in officer-involved deaths.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Julian Bradley and 6 co-sponsors

SB 25 modified court procedures for issuing criminal complaints in officer-involved deaths but was vetoed by Wisconsin's Governor on October 31, 2025.

Failed to pass notwithstanding the objections of the Governor pursuant to Joint Rule 82
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Bill Summary · SB 25

Legislative bill overview

SB 25 modifies the process for issuing criminal complaints in cases involving officer-involved deaths in Wisconsin. The bill appears to establish or alter procedural requirements for how courts handle complaints when law enforcement officers are involved in fatal incidents. The Governor vetoed the measure on October 31, 2025, preventing it from becoming law.

Why is this important

Officer-involved death cases carry significant public scrutiny and raise questions about accountability, due process, and judicial independence. Procedural changes to complaint issuance can affect how quickly cases proceed, what evidence is required before charges are filed, and the balance between investigative thoroughness and prompt action. These mechanisms directly impact public trust in law enforcement accountability systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial independence vs. legislative procedure: Questions about whether the legislature should prescribe specific procedures for judges issuing complaints, or whether this infringes on judicial discretion
  • Speed vs. thoroughness: Whether new procedures expedite complaint issuance (potentially favoring prosecution) or add requirements that slow the process (potentially affecting transparency and accountability)
  • Standard of evidence: Disagreement over what level of evidence should trigger a criminal complaint in officer-involved cases and who determines sufficiency

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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