6-13-13 domestic violence bill

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Assembly has delayed action on a bill that would expand the scope of evidence that can be used to prosecute domestic violence cases.  The proposal was up for a vote Wednesday but it was pushed back to Thursday.  The measure would allow prosecutors to use reports of suspects' relevant misconduct over the previous 10 years. They could include violations of restraining orders or injunctions, and convictions for domestic abuse, stalking or harassment.  Bill sponsor Rep. Andre Jacque says judges don't always allow such evidence, fearing it would prejudice a jury.  Democrats argue the bill could result in unproven allegations being heard in court since it doesn't rule out evidence from instances in which no charges were filed or the person wasn't convicted.