A signature bond of $5,000 was set for Rhinelander City Administrator Daniel Guild, formally charged Tuesday with Misconduct in Public Office.
Guild was arrested Monday morning, the culmination of a months-long investigation by the Oneida County Sheriff's Department and other agencies into alleged changes in public documents.
Guild made a short appearance via video monitor to Oneida County Circuit Court.
Judge Patrick O'Melia outlined the charge to Guild's attorney Brian Bennett, Bennett appearing via telephone...
"(Judge O'Melia)Mr. Bennett have you seen a copy of the one county complaint alleging Misconduct in Public Office, a Class I felony?" (Bennett) Yes, Your Honor, we have seen a copy of the criminal complaint and we waive further reading..."
Assistant District Attorney Jillian Pfeifer recommended bond to the court...
"Your Honor, I spoke with (District) Attorney Schiek prior to today's hearing. The state is asking for a signature bond with no special conditions..."
Judge O'Melia set the $5,000 signature bond and also set a preliminary hearing date of March 30 at 10:30 a.m. At a preliminary hearing initial evidence in the case will be presented to see if proceedings should continue. A signature bond means a defendant signs a document that they will appear at times set by the court or forfeit the money.
Guild’s arrest came after more than a year of investigation. Part of that investigation included a lockdown of Rhinelander City Hall on Nov. 21, in which investigators seized 27 pieces of evidence. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office executed two warrants during the lockdown. That search lasted more than five hours, and included officers from Oneida, Vilas, and Marathon counties, as well as the Wisconsin Department of Justice. The evidentiary items seized included documents, flash drives, and cell phones.
A special Rhinelander Common Council meeting is set for Friday night at 7 p.m. to discuss Guild's contract status.
