Wisconsin v. Laxton

¶ 1. This case involves a constitutional challenge to Wis. Stat. ch. 980 (1997-98)1, the sexually violent person commitment law. Petitioner John Lee Laxton, who was involuntarily committed to institutional care under ch. 980, argues that the statute is unconstitutional because it violates substantive due process guarantees in the United *189States and Wisconsin Constitutions. Specifically, Lax-ton argues that ch. 980 is unconstitutional because, in determining that an individual is sexually violent and subject to civil commitment, the provisions of the chapter do not require a jury to determine…