Former Milwaukee City Attorney Tearman Spencer charged with misconduct in office

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Charges have been filed against Milwaukee's former city attorney, Tearman Spencer.

A criminal complaint lists the charges as misconduct in office and obstructing an officer. 

It alleges that while employed as a public officer, Spencer directed Milwaukee city attorney staff and resources "in an effort to have himself or another avoid fees and repairs required by the Department of Neighborhood Services inspections that totaled thousands of dollars." The complaint says this was also done in an effort to avoid inspections regarding his personal property. 

Prosecutors say Spencer went on to mislead investigators when questioned about the use of resources to his personal benefit between June 1, 2022, and Feb. 14, 2023.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson released the following statement on the matter: 

“The allegations against former City Attorney Tearman Spencer are both disturbing and disappointing. The people of Milwaukee have expectations their elected officials scrupulously follow the law, and today’s charges assert that Mr. Spencer did not.

I have consistently called for accountability for those who violate the public’s trust. The voters of this city removed City Attorney Spencer from office in April. That was one form of accountability. He will now face accountability in a court of law.

In our system of justice, the accused deserve both a presumption of innocence and a full opportunity to defend themselves. In this matter, it is my hope justice will come as quickly as possible.”