The Secretary of Department of Corrections resigned on February 8 following the controversy at Lincoln Hills. 

According to DOJ Communications Director Anne E. Schwartz said DOJ is obligated under Wisconsin civil service law to allow Ed Wall immediate restoration to his position as DCI administrator.  However, to protect the integrity of the Lincoln Hills investigation, Wall will be placed on administrative leave and the current DCI administrator will continue in his role.

Governor Scott Walker announced the appointment of Jon Litscher to serve as Secretary of the Department of Corrections (DOC).

“Jon Litscher has gained valuable experience by serving in numerous roles throughout his career, including various positions in state government,” Governor Walker said.  “We know he has the expertise and knowledge needed to lead the Department of Corrections forward with a steady hand.”

Jon Litscher most recently served as the Interim Superintendent of the Cambria-Friesland School District in Cambria, Wisconsin.  Litscher also has extensive experience in state government, previously serving as Executive Secretary of the Higher Educational Aids Board from 1987-1990, Secretary of the Department of Employment Relations from 1991-1999, and Secretary of the Department of Corrections from 1999-2003.  He received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from UW-Whitewater, a Masters in Educational Administration from UW-Milwaukee, and a special certificate in Educational Administration from UW-Milwaukee.

Secretary Ed Wall submitted his letter of resignation on February 5, 2016.  Secretary Wall’s last day at DOC will be February 27, 2016.  His resignation letters can be found here and here.

“My thanks to Secretary Wall for his years of dedicated service to the Department of Corrections and the State of Wisconsin.  We wish him all the best as he continues his service in law enforcement,” added Governor Walker.

Litscher’s first day serving as Secretary will be February 29, 2016.