Minocqua, WI – Yesterday, Kirk Bangstad, owner of Minocqua Brewing Company, was arrested by the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department on two counts of “misdemeanor defamation,” pursuant to an almost never used, and likely unconstitutional state criminal statute. Bangstad was detained in Minocqua, handcuffed, and transported to the Oneida County jail, where he was booked and held for two hours before being released.

Bangstad, a prominent progressive voice in Northern Wisconsin, has been outspoken about local political issues. He believes this arrest was an extension of the politically motivated civil defamation suit filed by Gregg Walker, publisher of the right-wing publication The Lakeland Times, in 2020. 

“This is political retribution, plain and simple,” said Bangstad. “I believe the local ‘Old Boys Network’ is leveraging law enforcement to silence me and further drain my business with legal fees.” He added that this is just one more example of how political power is being abused in Northern Wisconsin.

Bangstad’s arrest follows a history of legal disputes with Walker and Oneida County officials. His most recent suit was settled just weeks ago after a four-year legal battle. Bangstad contends that this criminal defamation arrest is nothing more than an attempt to use the criminal justice system to silence him, a tactic he likened to the political intimidation seen in authoritarian regimes.

“This is the playbook of fascism. If these tactics can be used here in Northern Wisconsin, they’ll be used across the country,” said Bangstad. “This is a clear example of the dangers of unchecked political power, and it’s a warning of what America could become if we don’t stand up against it.”

Bangstad plans to file a federal lawsuit against Oneida County, arguing that his arrest was unconstitutional and politically motivated. 

“We will fight this in court and hold the officials accountable for this clear abuse of power,” said Bangstad. “This isn’t just about me—it’s about defending our democracy from the politics of retribution.”

About Minocqua Brewing Company

The Minocqua Brewing Company has become a strong progressive voice in Northern Wisconsin, drawing thousands of tourists from across the country to our historic taproom in downtown Minocqua. They have also recently opened a new “home away from home” location on the west side of Madison. For more information about the new products and upcoming events, please visit Minocqua Brewing Company’s website: MinocquaBrewingCompany.com.

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