Wisconsin Rapids Man Charged with Fatal Hit and Run Accident in Stevens Point Appears in Portage County Court

Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024 -- 11:00 AM

A Wisconsin Rapids man charged with a fatal hit and run accident in Stevens Point appeared in Portage County Court.

Portage County District Attorney Cass Cousins announced that Kenneth Butler was formally charged in connection to the fatal hit and run taking place on West River Drive in Stevens Point on March 5th.

Kenneth L. Butler was in Portage County Circuit Court with Hit and Run Causing Death, a Class D Felony, for which he could be sentenced to a maximum of 15 years of confinement in prison, and Homicide by Negligent Operation of a Vehicle, for which he could be sentenced to a maximum of 5 years of confinement in prison.

The defendant also can be fined, supervised by the Department of Corrections on Extended Supervision or Probation, and is subject to a mandatory five-year revocation of his operating privilege. The defendant was arrested approximately one day later, on March 6th, following an investigation by the Stevens Point Police Department.

The speed with which the defendant was located and apprehended is a testament to the abilities and effectiveness of the officers and detectives of the SPPD. It is also a testament to the willingness of members of the community to provide assistance to law enforcement to solve serious crimes.

He is presently being held on a $250,000 cash bond. During his preliminary hearing, probable cause was found, so his court proceedings will continue. He entered a not guilty plea to the charges against him during his arraignment. He’s scheduled to be back in court on March 29th.

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