WRN file photo
The state Supreme Court will has ruled against ordering an investigation into the leak of documents from a now-ended John Doe investigation.
The secret probe was looking into whether Governor Scott Walker’s campaign was illegally coordinating with outside groups during a recall effort against him.
The state had requested the appointment of a special master to oversee case, and to order an investigation into who leaked evidence to the Guardian U.S. newspaper. The leak provided an in-depth look at the secret investigation and the activities of its potential targets, including revelations that Walker helped raise funds for outside groups.
In a 3-1 ruling, justice wrote that while the court has the authority to protect and enforce its orders, it’s up to the executive branch to investigate and prosecute crimes. Justices noted prosecutors are still free to pursue charges against any individuals who may have violated the court’s secrecy order.
A spokesman with the state Department of Justice said the agency is still reviewing the decision.