Kenosha County Board chairman who allegedly stole from Menards makes 1st court appearance

KENOSHA -- Caught on camera for allegedly stealing from Menards, the Kenosha County Board Chairman appeared in court for his initial appearance Friday, Nov. 22. Last week, FOX6 News obtained body camera video of police confronting, and subsequently arresting Daniel Esposito at his home on Saturday, Nov. 2 -- the day of the alleged theft. On Friday, his attorney said he expects this case to go to trial.

Daniel Esposito

Daniel Esposito court appearance

Friday, Kenosha County Board Chairman and local chiropractor Daniel Esposito appeared in court with his attorney, Michael Cicchini.

"Esposito is 51 years old and has no prior criminal record. He's married and owns his own home," said Cicchini during his client's initial appearance.

It's that home where police confronted Esposito on Nov. 2, the same say he allegedly stole $627 dollars worth of silicone roof coating from Menards in Kenosha.

"They have you on-camera there, grabbing some roofing tar," said an officer to Esposito.

"Oh really?" replied Esposito.

Esposito then told the officers he had a receipt for the items, but was ultimately unable to produce it.

"Did you steal it or not?" asked the officer.

"Well, yeah, I have it, so obviously I took it out of there," said Esposito.

Menards

A felony retail theft charge was filed Nov. 8 against Esposito.

"I understand the interest in this case is very high at this point," said Cicchini.

Cicchini says Esposito regularly shops at Menards.

"He spends a lot of money there," said Cicchini. "He rehabs houses, for one. He spent about $100,000 there over the past two years."

Court documents make note of surveillance video showing Esposito leaving the store without paying -- something Cicchini says he has yet to see.

Michael Cicchini

"We look forward to seeing the surveillance the state claims to have," said Cicchini.

Esposito signed a $1,000 signature bond Friday, and is required to have no in-person contact with the Kenosha Menards.

FOX6 News has also reached out to the Kenosha Police Department for a copy the surveillance video cited in the criminal complaint, but has yet to hear back.

To avoid a conflict of interest, the Walworth County District Attorney's Office is handling this investigation.

Meanwhile, Esposito's preliminary hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 18.

Daniel Esposito court appearance