Prosecutor’s office catching up after COVID-19

Between the delays of COVID–19 and a record–breaking amount of new felony cases this year, the Marquette County Prosecutor’s Office has their work cut out for them.

Prosecuting Attorney Matt Wiese said despite virtual trials throughout the pandemic, there is still a trial backup.

“Is there a backlog? Yes, there is. And it’s mostly because we couldn’t have jury trials for about 13 months,” said Weise.

He said about 1,000 misdemeanor cases and 1,000 felony cases are ready for jury trial.

In addition, new cases are opening at an alarming rate. 839 felony cases were opened in 2020, a new record, and the 2021 numbers are already slated to beat that.

So far 525 felony cases have been opened this year. If that trend continues, he expects more than 1,000 new cases by the end of the year.

“So you put on there the cases that happened during the pandemic that are waiting for trial, plus all the new cases that are coming…we are trying to keep on top of everything.”

The trend in crime has also shifted.

“There was an uptick in some of our domestic violence and child abuse during the pandemic,” said Weise. “The good news is our streets are still safe, the bad news is unfortunately we’ve had an increase in violence-related cases.”

Wiese emphasized if you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, support and aid them to the best of your ability. Marquette County has numerous community-based shelters.