Milwaukee Police Probe Handling of Marty Brooks Records

Internal investigation launched after DA office resignation over leaked case details

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Milwaukee Police Department has launched an internal investigation into how department staff handled documents and recordings related to an allegation of sexual misconduct against Wisconsin Center District CEO Marty Brooks. The inquiry follows the release of a police report and audio connected to the case, as well as the resignation of a county district attorney's office employee who improperly shared the names of parties involved.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tension between transparency and protecting complainants' privacy when high-profile figures are involved. The timing and scope of public record releases can heavily influence public perception and the reputations of those named, making the MPD's internal review an important test of how the department balances openness and confidentiality.

The details

In November, Milwaukee Common Council President José Pérez told detectives he felt a sharp pinch from Brooks and confronted him about it. A witness said she saw Brooks' hand move toward Pérez's buttock but could not conclusively confirm contact. Police investigated the allegation as a fourth-degree sexual assault, but prosecutors declined to file charges, citing a lack of evidence for the required elements of sexual gratification or humiliation.

  • In November, Pérez reported the alleged incident to police.
  • Milwaukee County prosecutors reviewed the case and declined to file charges in early 2026.

The players

Marty Brooks

The CEO of the Wisconsin Center District, who was accused of sexual misconduct by Milwaukee Common Council President José Pérez.

José Pérez

The Milwaukee Common Council President who reported the alleged incident of sexual misconduct against Marty Brooks.

Jeffrey Altenburg

The Chief Deputy District Attorney who said an internal review found a then-employee improperly shared the names of parties involved in the referral, leading to that staffer's resignation.

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What they’re saying

“I did not do that.”

— Marty Brooks (WTMJ)

“I was disappointed.”

— José Pérez (WTMJ)

What’s next

The MPD's Internal Affairs Division will determine whether department policy was violated and whether any staff members face discipline, while the Wisconsin Center District board and outside lawyers weigh possible employment or civil steps.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing transparency and privacy when high-profile figures are involved in sensitive investigations. The MPD's internal review will be closely watched for how the department navigates this delicate issue and whether it can restore public trust in the handling of confidential case information.