Pre-trial hearing set for Wis. John Doe defendant

MILWAUKEE — A final pretrial hearing is set for Kevin D. Kavanaugh, a former associate to Gov. Scott Walker who’s accused of embezzling about $42,000 from veteran groups.

The 62-year-old has pleaded not guilty to felony theft and fraud charges. He’s due in court Tuesday morning for a pretrial hearing ahead of a trial scheduled to start next month.

Before he was elected governor, Walker was the Milwaukee County executive. In that role he appointed Kavanaugh to the county Veterans Service Commission.

Prosecutors say Kavanaugh and another former Walker associated stole donations intended to help military veterans and their families.

Kavanaugh was charged as part of a secret, so-called John Doe investigation into activity in Walker’s office. Walker has not been charged and has said he’s not a target of the investigation.