The Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) has announced charges against Jason H. Meister, a former correctional sergeant at Lincoln County Jail. Meister, aged 44 and from Pearson, Wisconsin, faces one count of abuse of residents of penal facilities and one count of substantial battery. These charges stem from an alleged assault on an inmate on February 28, 2025.
The criminal complaint states that Meister physically assaulted the inmate in their cell, resulting in injuries that required medical treatment. The inmate suffered two broken ribs and a laceration above the eye needing stitches. Surveillance footage captured the incident.
Following an internal investigation, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office terminated Meister's employment as a correctional sergeant. The DCI is conducting an independent investigation into the matter with full cooperation from the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office. The prosecution is being handled by the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office.
"As in any criminal proceeding," it was noted, "Mr. Meister is presumed innocent until proven guilty."