Trial on schedule for Wis. John Doe defendant

MILWAUKEE — A former associate to Gov. Scott Walker will face a jury trial next month on charges that he embezzled about $42,000 from veterans’ groups.

Kevin D. Kavanaugh of Cudahy has pleaded not guilty to felony theft and fraud charges.

At a pretrial hearing Friday, lawyers for the prosecution and defense finalized some minor issues ahead of an Oct. 8 trial. They said they expect it to last about a week.

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

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

Kavanaugh was charged as part of an investigation into activity in Walker’s office. Walker has not been charged.