Kenosha DA Sanctioned for Undisclosed AI Use, Cases Dismissed Over 'Hallucinations'

Judge cites inaccurate case citations and lack of transparency around AI tools in dismissing burglary charges.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Wisconsin judge has sanctioned Kenosha County District Attorney Xavier Solis for failing to disclose his use of artificial intelligence in court filings and for submitting inaccurate case citations. The case, involving burglary charges against two Illinois men, highlights concerns over AI 'hallucinations' - fabricated information - undermining the integrity of the legal system.

Why it matters

This case underscores the growing need for clear guidelines and responsible implementation of AI in legal practice, as more lawyers experiment with AI tools for research, document drafting, and case analysis. While AI offers potential benefits, it also introduces risks of inaccuracy and ethical breaches that must be addressed.

The details

During a hearing, Judge David Hughes discovered that Solis had used AI for research without disclosing it, a violation of Kenosha County court policy. Defense attorney Michael Cicchini pointed out that the state's arguments contained 'AI hallucinations,' including citations to cases that didn't exist. Judge Hughes dismissed the cases against Christain Garrett and Cornelius Garrett, citing a lack of probable cause, but the AI issue was a key factor.

  • On February 16, 2026, the judge sanctioned Kenosha County District Attorney Xavier Solis.

The players

Xavier Solis

The Kenosha County District Attorney who failed to disclose his use of artificial intelligence in court filings.

Judge David Hughes

The Wisconsin judge who sanctioned Solis and dismissed the burglary cases due to the AI issues.

Michael Cicchini

The defense attorney who pointed out the 'AI hallucinations' in the state's arguments, including citations to non-existent cases.

Christain Garrett

One of the Illinois men charged with burglary, whose case was dismissed by the judge.

Cornelius Garrett

The other Illinois man charged with burglary, whose case was also dismissed by the judge.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must ensure that AI is used responsibly and transparently in our legal system. The integrity of the justice system is at stake.”

— Judge David Hughes, Presiding Judge (Kenosha County Court)

“This case highlights the urgent need for clear guidelines and oversight when it comes to AI use in legal practice. We cannot allow fabricated information to undermine the fairness of our courts.”

— Michael Cicchini, Defense Attorney (Kenosha County Court)

What’s next

The Kenosha County District Attorney's office has indicated it will review its policies and procedures around the use of AI in legal work, with the goal of developing more robust disclosure requirements and verification processes.

The takeaway

This case serves as a wake-up call for the legal profession, underscoring the risks of AI 'hallucinations' and the need for greater transparency and oversight when it comes to the use of AI tools in the courtroom. It will likely accelerate the development of standardized guidelines and best practices for responsible AI implementation in law.