On May 12, 2025, a federal indictment was unsealed against Michael J. Kornely, a 75-year-old resident of Francis Creek, Wisconsin. The indictment alleges that Kornely transported two minor victims across state lines with the "intent to engage in criminal sexual activity," violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(a), during the years 2005 and 2006.
Additionally, Kornely is accused of using a computer to attempt to "persuade, induce, and entice" a minor into unlawful sexual activity. This alleged crime took place in March of 2024 and is contrary to Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b).
If convicted on any of these charges, Kornely faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and could be sentenced to life imprisonment. He may also face fines up to $250,000 and would be required to register as a sexual offender under both state and federal law.
The investigation into this case was conducted by the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with support from the Two Rivers Police Department. The prosecution will be handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel R. Humble and Timothy W. Funnell.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched by the U.S. Department of Justice in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood coordinates federal, state, and local resources to apprehend individuals exploiting children online and works to identify and rescue victims.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation; it does not constitute evidence of guilt. The defendant remains presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
