RPD announces release of sex offender Winkler

Michael W. Winkler Sr. was released from incarceration on Tuesday, March 3, the Rhinelander Police Department announced in a press release and on Facebook that day.

Winkler will reside at 949 North Stevens Street in Rhinelander. The RPD describes him as being 5-foot-10, with white hair and green eyes, and weighing about 180 pounds.

In 2016 Winkler was convicted in Oneida County court (case 2015 CF 172) of Child Abuse – Intentionally Cause Great Harm. He has a prior arrest/conviction for First Degree Sexual Assault involving a minor.

Winkler will be monitored by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections Probation and Parole Division and local law enforcement. He will be subject to the conditions of the Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry as a lifetime registrant. 

“If a citizen sees Michael Winkler engaging in concerning behavior including unapproved contact with a minor or activity on social media platforms, they are encouraged to contact local law enforcement,” the RPD wrote in their press release. “The purpose of this notification is not intended to increase fear; rather, to ensure the safety of individuals within our community and it is our belief that an informed public is a safer public.”

The department also stated that citizens’ abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate or harass the registered sex offenders will not be tolerated. 

Questions can be directed to any on-duty RPD officer at 715-365-5300.