Milwaukee County Courthouse closes ahead of decision in Joseph Mensah case

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Courthouse, Safety Building, and Criminal Justice Facility will be closed at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, in advance of the news regarding potential charges for Wauwatosa Police Officer Joseph Mensah in the fatal February shooting of Alvin Cole.

“This has been a one-of-a-kind summer for County residents and employees alike as we continue to battle two pandemics: COVID-19 and the effects of generations of systemic racism. In anticipation of today’s decision, I encourage County employees to use the early closure to continue to heal from the trauma of the last seven months and reflect on the County’s stated goals of achieving racial equity and becoming the healthiest county in the state,” said County Executive David Crowley. “I’m confident that closing these County facilities early will not only give us all much needed time for reflection and self-care, but also help prevent the escalation of the anticipated peaceful vigils and protests in the downtown area this evening.”

A news release says, Milwaukee County employees have been asked to go home early from their first shift or been told not to come in for second or third shifts. Any employee working in these locations who is asked to leave is considered non-essential for this closure under the Building Closure Policy AMOP 2.18. As a result, these employees are encouraged to work from home, if possible, for the rest of their shift.

Court hearings scheduled for this afternoon will either be conducted via Zoom and/or rescheduled.