Opening statements begin in Milwaukee County kidnapping trial of Timothy Olson after years of delays

Trial moves into testimony phase after jury selection

A Milwaukee County jury trial began this week for Timothy Olson, 55, who is charged in connection with the alleged kidnapping of a 79-year-old woman in Franklin in 2022. Jury selection took place Tuesday, March 10, 2026, followed by opening statements. The first witness testimony was scheduled to begin Wednesday, March 11.

Prosecutors told jurors the case centers on an alleged armed abduction the day before Thanksgiving 2022. In opening statements, the prosecution indicated jurors are expected to hear directly from the woman at the center of the case and described the episode as a lengthy ordeal, including claims she was forced to consume alcohol and another liquid while in a vehicle.

Olson, addressing the jury briefly, denied the allegation and told jurors the evidence would show he is innocent.

Case history marked by attorney changes and competency disputes

Court proceedings in the case have been extended by repeated disputes over representation and competency. The record reflects that Olson has had seven attorneys over the life of the case and has twice asserted he was not competent to stand trial. A psychologist concluded he was feigning impairment during at least one evaluation.

Immediately before trial began, the case was again disrupted by concerns about Olson’s health. On Monday, March 9, he was taken to the hospital with an apparent head injury, prompting a postponement of that day’s start. The court indicated it was his second apparent head injury in less than a week. When proceedings resumed Tuesday, Olson again sought delay, citing a head injury after falls in his jail cell. The judge allowed his concerns to be placed on the record while continuing forward with jury selection and trial scheduling.

What jurors are expected to hear this week

Prosecutors indicated they intend to call about 22 witnesses. The trial was expected to run through Friday.

• The complainant is expected to testify about the alleged kidnapping and events during the reported 16-hour period.
• Additional witnesses are expected as the state presents evidence tied to the alleged abduction and related charges.

Key claims previewed in opening statements

Prosecutors told jurors they will hear testimony describing an extended period of confinement in a car and allegations that the woman was compelled to drink alcohol and an “orange” liquid. Olson told jurors the claim was untrue and that the evidence would show he is innocent.

The court has not reached a verdict, and Olson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.