MSO Chorus Director arrested, accused of sexual activity in park

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Milwaukee County Sheriff's officials have announced the arrest of 11 individuals during an investigation into sexual activity and solicitation taking place in Milwaukee County Parks. Included among those arrested is Lee Erickson, who serves as Chorus Director for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.

Lee Erickson

In a statement, Sheriff's officials say the Sheriff's Office has received numerous complaints of sexual activity and solicitation taking place in County parks.

In response to these complaints, Sheriff Clarke initiated an undercover operation with a goal of curbing and deterring illegal sexual activity in the parks, and seven arrests have been made in the past two weeks.

Four more arrests were made Tuesday, November 5th.

Those arrested range in age from 43 to 75.

58-year-old Erickson of South Milwaukee was arrested on Monday by an undercover Sheriff's deputy.

According to Sheriff's officials, Erickson followed the deputy into a bathroom at Grant Park along Milwaukee’s Lakefront, exposed himself, and began performing a sex act in front of the officer.

Sheriff's officials say Erickson stated numerous times that he just wanted to be able to pay the fine and not have this go public or this would ruin his career.

Sheriff Clarke commented on the issue of sexual activity and solicitation in the parks saying, “public spaces weren’t designed for this kind of activity. This is a quality of life issue.  People want to enjoy their open air spaces in the parks without being solicited, assaulted or witnessing this type of behavior.  The Sheriff’s Office responds to these complaints, and the arrests and public humiliation serve as a deterrent to others inclined  to participate in this illegal sexual activity.”

MSO's website says Erickson has been a part of the organization for more than 30 years. In a statement to FOX6 News, the MSO says: "We have suspended the individual pending the completion of the investigation."

In addition to his work with MSO, Erickson also serves as the Music Director for St. Anthony's Church in Milwaukee.