Story perspectives

Man Sentenced for Harassing Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice

1/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ryan Thornton, 37, of Racine, Wisconsin, was sentenced January 5, 2026, to two years' probation.
The felony stalking charge was dismissed in the plea.
Thornton harassed Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Jill Karofsky with over 70 threatening calls and emails after his petition against an attorney was rejected.
He is prohibited from contacting Karofsky or entering Dane County without approval.
He will wear a Global Positioning System monitor for 30 days.

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Story summary

Ryan Thornton, 37, of Racine, Wisconsin, was sentenced January 5, 2026, to two years' probation.
The felony stalking charge was dismissed in the plea.
Thornton harassed Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Jill Karofsky with over 70 threatening calls and emails after his petition against an attorney was rejected.
He is prohibited from contacting Karofsky or entering Dane County without approval.
He will wear a Global Positioning System monitor for 30 days.