Police department announces release of sex offender

The Rhinelander Police Department has announced that convicted sex offender Michael W. Winkler Sr., 77, was released from incarceration on March 3 and is now residing at 949 North Stevens Street. 

Winkler is 5’10 and weighs approximately 180 pounds. He has white hair and green eyes

According to a police department press release, he was convicted of child abuse – intentionally cause great harm. He also 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 and is subject to the conditions of the Wisconsin Sex Offender Registry as a lifetime registrant, the release states.

“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 release states. “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. Citizen’s abuse of this information to threaten, intimidate or harass the registered sex offenders will not be tolerated.”