Racine, WI – A 17-year-old Racine teen was arrested this week after investigators linked him to multiple alleged assaults targeting women near the Racine County Courthouse, according to the Racine County Sheriff’s Office.
According to officials, the first reported incident occurred around 7:50 a.m. on October 2, 2025, when a Racine County employee stated she was walking up College Avenue toward the Courthouse and felt someone grab her buttocks. The victim turned to see a man matching the description of a young, clean-shaven male around 6 feet tall.
While deputies investigated, another employee came forward with a similar report from September 25. That woman said she felt someone touch her lower back while walking near the Courthouse. Both victims provided consistent descriptions, leading investigators to identify Joshua Meeks, 17, of Racine.
Investigators said Meeks admitted to being near one of the victims and acknowledged previous trouble for similar behavior. Deputies arrested him and transported him to the Racine County Jail, where the District Attorney’s Office filed charges of 4th Degree Sexual Assault and Disorderly Conduct.
A third alleged victim later reported a similar encounter on September 30, also outside the Courthouse. Deputies have since recommended additional charges of 4th Degree Sexual Assault.
Sheriff Christopher Schmaling urged anyone with similar experiences to contact authorities, saying, “We must hold this serial offender fully accountable before his abuse escalates.”
