Menasha Officer Pleads Not Guilty to Misconduct Charge Over Ex-Girlfriend Tracking

Cristian Morales accused of using license plate recognition system to monitor his former partner's location

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Menasha police officer Cristian Morales has pleaded not guilty to a charge of misconduct in office after allegedly accessing a license plate recognition system to track his ex-girlfriend's location. Morales reportedly told authorities that "desperation, and bad judgment, combined with a lack of sleep" contributed to his decision to use the system, which he knew was wrong.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about the potential misuse of law enforcement technology and resources for personal reasons, as well as the broader issue of stalking and domestic abuse involving current or former partners of police officers.

The details

According to the complaint, Morales' ex-girlfriend complained that he had used the Flock license plate recognition system to monitor her location. A review of Morales' activity showed he tried to use the system five different times to track her vehicle in early October. Morales has been placed on administrative leave by the Menasha Police Department, and a civil filing seeking a temporary restraining order in a domestic abuse case has also been filed against him by an unnamed petitioner.

  • On October 1-5, 2025, Morales allegedly accessed the Flock system multiple times to track his ex-girlfriend's vehicle.
  • On February 10, 2026, Morales pleaded not guilty to the misconduct in office charge.
  • Morales is scheduled to return to court on March 10, 2026 for a status conference.

The players

Cristian Morales

A Menasha police officer accused of accessing a license plate recognition system to track his ex-girlfriend's location.

Menasha Police Department

The department that placed Morales on administrative leave following the allegations.

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What they’re saying

“Cristian indicated that 'desperation, and bad judgment, combined with a lack of sleep', contributed to his decision to use Flock. He also indicated he knew his decision to use Flock was wrong, but it was out of a pure moment of 'desperation and lack of judgment'.”

— Cristian Morales (Complaint)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on March 10 whether to allow Morales to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability measures around law enforcement's use of surveillance technologies, as well as the importance of addressing domestic abuse issues within police departments to prevent abuse of power and protect victims.