Waukesha County Circuit Court Judge Michael O. Bohren was honored for his years of service in strengthening court security across the state at the 15th Annual Court Safety and Security Conference in Appleton earlier this month. Judge Bohren announced his plans to step down from the bench next month.
Director of State Courts Audrey Skwierawski also recognized Judge Bohren during her opening remarks, commending his leadership in court security. “Judge Bohren exemplifies what it means to be a leader in court security. He has brought people together, built networks of professionals committed to this work, and championed efforts that have made our courts safer today,” Skwierawski said.
The next day, Court Security Committee Chair Jason Sterling presented Judge Bohren with a plaque recognizing his leadership in court security efforts. District Court Administrator Michael Neimon delivered personal remarks before handing the floor to Sterling, who highlighted Judge Bohren’s role in shaping security policies. The recognition came as a surprise to Judge Bohren, who was unaware of the planned tribute.
Bohren has been involved in court security initiatives for nearly two decades. He was appointed co-chair of the Supreme Court’s PPAC Subcommittee on Security in 2007 and later led efforts to revise Supreme Court Rule 68, which outlines security planning for Wisconsin courts. His work contributed to the implementation of perimeter screening at the Waukesha County Courthouse, the development of confidential judicial profiles, and advocacy for judicial privacy and security legislation.
In addition to his work in Waukesha County, Judge Bohren served as a resource for similar committees statewide, helping local courts address security concerns. He has served on the bench since 2000 and plans to retire on April 30.
Third Branch eNews is an online monthly newsletter of the Director of State Courts Office. If you are interested in contributing an article about your department’s programs or accomplishments, contact your department head. Information about judicial retirements and judicial obituaries may be submitted to: Sara.Foster@wicourts.gov