READSTOWN WISCONSIN, A Wisconsin nurse has been sentenced to jail after admitting to engaging in an inappropriate sexual relationship with a patient and later falsely accusing him of sexual assault.
Melissa Rose Knutson, of Readstown, was sentenced to 18 months in jail followed by two years of extended supervision after pleading guilty to misconduct in public office.
Prosecutors said Knutson, who worked as a mental health nurse, was treating a man who was participating in a drug court program when she repeatedly engaged in sexual activity with him between June and September 2022.
The situation came to light after her actions were reported to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services due to the inappropriate relationship with a patient under her care.
Knutson initially alleged that the man had sexually assaulted her. However, investigators later uncovered evidence including text messages, emails, photos, and social media communications that indicated the relationship had been consensual.
Authorities said Knutson eventually admitted to lying to investigators, stating she made the false allegation because she feared the consequences of her actions.
She entered no-contest pleas to misconduct in public office and resisting or obstructing an officer. Three additional charges of second-degree sexual assault by an employee of a care or service facility were dismissed but considered during sentencing.
During sentencing, Judge Paul Curran described Knutson’s actions as “despicable” and criticized the damage caused by violating the trust between a nurse and patient.
District Attorney Kevin Croninger said the case was particularly concerning because the patient was participating in a drug court program and was under Knutson’s professional care at the time.
Prosecutors said Knutson had been responsible for administering Vivitrol, a medication used in substance abuse treatment, to the patient. Investigators determined the relationship began after messages revealed Knutson initiated the contact and had threatened to deny the relationship if it was discovered.
Following her jail sentence, Knutson will be placed under supervision for two years.
