Nurse Sentenced for Sex with Drug Court Patient, False Assault Claim

Melissa Knutson engaged in sexual relationship with patient, then falsely accused him of assault

Mar. 3, 2026 at 6:39am

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A Wisconsin nurse named Melissa Knutson has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for misconduct in public office and obstructing an officer. Knutson, who was tasked with providing a drug treatment drug to a patient in the Monroe County Drug Court, repeatedly had sex with the patient and then falsely claimed he had sexually assaulted her. Text messages later revealed that Knutson had initiated the relationship and planned to deny everything if they were caught.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious breach of trust and abuse of power when a medical professional engages in sexual activity with a patient, especially one who is in a vulnerable position as a participant in drug court. It also demonstrates the harm caused when someone falsely accuses another of sexual assault, undermining legitimate claims and eroding public trust.

The details

Knutson was found guilty of misconduct in public office and obstructing an officer after she engaged in a sexual relationship with a patient she was tasked with providing the drug Vivitrol to as part of the Monroe County Drug Court program. When authorities were alerted to the situation, Knutson initially accused the patient of sexually assaulting her, claiming she stayed quiet out of fear he would harm her or her family. However, text messages later revealed that Knutson had initiated the relationship and planned to deny everything if they were caught.

  • In 2022, Melissa Knutson engaged in sexual intercourse with a patient while working for the Monroe County Drug Court.

The players

Melissa Knutson

A Wisconsin nurse who was found guilty of misconduct in public office and obstructing an officer after engaging in a sexual relationship with a patient she was tasked with providing drug treatment to as part of the Monroe County Drug Court program.

Monroe County Drug Court

The drug court program in Monroe County, Wisconsin where Knutson was employed and tasked with providing treatment to a patient she later had a sexual relationship with.

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What they’re saying

“The harm caused by Ms. Knutson was deep and significant. Not only did she violate the sacred trust between a patient and a nurse, but she compounded that by falsely accusing the patient of sexual assault.”

— Kevin Croninger, District Attorney

What’s next

Knutson was sentenced to 18 months in prison and 2 years of extended supervision for her crimes.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious consequences when a medical professional abuses their position of trust and power over a vulnerable patient, and the additional harm caused when false accusations of sexual assault are made. It underscores the need for strict ethical standards and oversight in fields like drug court treatment.