Oneida County Settles Civil Rights Lawsuit for $1.25 Million

Oneida County will pay $1.25M to settle a federal civil-rights lawsuit stemming from a 2024 arrest in Rhinelander. The lawsuit was filed by 45-year-old Thomas Maulson, who alleged a Oneida County sheriff’s deputy used excessive force while arresting him in a Walmart parking lot.

Maulson, a member of the Lac du Flambeau Ojibwe Nation, was handcuffed when the incident occurred. He suffered a head injury that required 13 stitches, and criminal charges against him were later dismissed. The Sheriff’s Office disputed Maulson’s allegations and said the deputy’s actions were appropriate.

The case was settled shortly before it was scheduled to go to trial. The settlement resolves the lawsuit but does not establish liability or constitute a finding that the Sheriff’s Office or deputy acted improperly.