MARINETTE, Wis. (WFRV) – The Marinette High School Principal who was placed on administrative leave over a police investigation has been charged, according to court records.
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Wisconsin Circuit Court records show that 41-year-old Justin Bardowski was issued a court summons on Tuesday, about four days after a criminal complaint was filed, outlining the following charges:
- Misdemeanor Battery—punishable by up to nine months in prison and/or $10,000 in fines, if convicted
- Misdemeanor Disorderly Conduct—punishable by up to 90 days in prison and/or $1,000 in fines, if convicted
According to the complaint acquired by Local 5, the investigation stems from alleged assaults of a victim in October 2022. The victim reportedly met with Marinette County Sheriff’s Office detectives in March 2026 concerning the incident.
The victim told detectives that the two had been in a relationship, and he was sometimes drunk at school and that he would slap them in the head while drunk and in bed.
According to the complaint, the victim told detectives that they had been severely verbally abused as well on multiple occasions, but that he would ‘constantly apologize and promise it would never happen again.’
The incident outlined in the complaint reportedly occurred at a Four Seasons Resort, and the victim said that they were left with a black eye and split lip from Bardowski.
The following statement was emailed out to Marinette School District families:
“Good afternoon families of Marinette School District.
The Marinette School District has been made aware of charges filed against MHS Principal, Justin Bardowski. We are in the process of reviewing the allegations and will conduct an investigation pursuant to District policies. While the District investigates, Principal Bardowski will remain on administrative leave. As this is a confidential personnel matter, we will not share any further details.
Thank you.”
Marinette School District Superintendent Corry Lambie
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Bardowski is scheduled for his initial court appearance on May 18 at 8:30 a.m.
Local 5 will update this story as needed.
