Nurse had sex with patient, then falsely accused him of sexually assaulting her, authorities say

March 3, 2026

WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News Staff,

SPARTA, Wis. (WEAU/Gray News) – A Wisconsin nurse had sex with a patient, then falsely accused him of sexually assaulting her, authorities said.

Melissa Knutson pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office and obstructing an officer on Feb. 27.

Melissa Knutson pleaded guilty to misconduct in public office and obstructing an officer on Feb. 27.(Source: Monroe County District Attorney’s Office)

Prosecutors said that while Knutson was working as a nurse assigned to a drug court participant, she repeatedly had sex with the patient.

After some time, the sexual relationship was reported to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services.

Prosecutors said after the relationship was reported, Knutson accused the patient of sexual assault. But she eventually admitted to fabricating the accusation and said she did so to avoid facing consequences for the sex acts.

“The harm caused by Ms. Knutson was deep and significant. Not only did she violate the sacred trust between a patient and a nurse, but she compounded that by falsely accusing the patient of sexual assault,” District Attorney Kevin Croninger said. “This situation is particularly egregious given the patient in this situation was a participant in drug court.”

Knutson was sentenced to 18 months in prison.

Following her release from prison, Knutson will be subject to two years of public supervision.

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