Racine Co. judge rules disciplinary records of sheriff's captain running for office must be released

Added: 2026-05-16

[00:00:02]Accordingly, this court in applying the balancing test denies the request to enjoin the disclosure of the disputed records. That's a ruling from Judge Eugene Gasiorkiewicz after Racine County Sheriff's Captain Carrie Madrigal filed an injunction against the county and current Sheriff Christopher Schmaling.

[00:00:19]Madrigal asked the county not be allowed to release her disciplinary records from her 25 years of employment with the Racine County Sheriff's Office.

[00:00:26]These are three specific instances, one in 2006, one thousand 2012, and one in 2025.

[00:00:34]While we do not know the details of the discipline at this time, we do know that she was on duty when each of these events occurred. The complaint argued Madrigal's reputational interests outweigh any interest the public may have and said the requested records contain embarrassing personal and other information that could have a substantial effect on the subject's personal life and standing with the community.

[00:00:54]>> Given that police, by virtue of their choosing public employment, do not enjoy the same level of privacy and reputational protections as the private citizen.

[00:01:05]Madrigal is running to be Racine County's next Sheriff. I mean, as as somebody who's seeking public office as a public servant, uh the the records should be made public.

[00:01:15]>> Adrian Melby lives in Racine County and filed the records request that prompted the lawsuit. I was stunned, actually. I mean I spoke with her over the phone Thursday following the judge's ruling. It's really imperative that the public be aware that she's maybe not being completely transparent.

[00:01:36]>> I did reach out to Captain Madrigal's attorney who said his client wouldn't be available for comment Thursday saying she is in DC for Police Week ceremonies.

[00:01:44]The attorney representing Racine County told me they expected this ruling. The disciplinary records will remain sealed for 20 days. During that time, Captain Madrigal can appeal the ruling. If she does not appeal, a redacted version of the records both Madrigal and the county agreed to will be released in Racine.

[00:01:59]Lauren Gilbart, TMJ4 News.