WAUSAU, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A bipartisan review has concluded that no criminal charges will be filed against Wausau Mayor Doug Diny following an investigation into his handling of a ballot drop box during the 2024 election.
Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney announced the decision Wednesday, saying the review found insufficient evidence to prove any violations beyond a reasonable doubt. Toney, a Republican, and former Democratic Door County District Attorney Joan Korb conducted the review, with assistance from Fond du Lac County Assistant District Attorney Kennedy Cutts.
The decision comes months after the Wausau Ethics Board determined Diny violated the city’s ethics code by removing a ballot drop box from outside Wausau City Hall on Sept. 22, 2024. The board said Diny acted beyond his lawful authority and held the box for seven days.
Despite that finding, prosecutors said the legal standard for criminal charges was not met. Toney emphasized that charging decisions must be based on facts and law, not political considerations.
“Partisan politics has no place in the justice system,” Toney said in a statement, adding that some had pushed for charges while others opposed them for political reasons.
The announcement was delayed until after the April 7, 2026, election to avoid influencing local races, Toney said. He also noted the heightened scrutiny surrounding elections and election officials in recent years.
Diny previously said he removed the drop box over concerns about its security. However, the city clerk stated she did not authorize any action involving the box during the election period.
Following the ethics ruling, Diny said he disagreed with some of the board’s conclusions but expressed a desire for the city to move forward.
Toney announced the decision about Diny at the same time as he announced no criminal charges will be filed against Green Bay Mayor Eric Genrich for recording devices installed at Green Bay City Hall.
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