Wisconsin man Wanted in Sexual Assault Case Apprehended in Puerto Rico
Culebra, Puerto Rico - Cody Alan Tanke, 32, a Wisconsin resident with a history of sexual assault convictions, was captured in Culebra, Puerto Rico, while evading an arrest warrant for criminal contempt related to a rape case involving a minor under the age of 16. His apprehension concludes a search for Tanke, who failed to appear in court regarding the charges.
The arrest underscores ongoing concerns about the safety of vulnerable populations and the reach of justice across jurisdictional boundaries. Tanke’s prior conviction and subsequent flight from prosecution raise questions about the effectiveness of supervision and the potential for repeat offenses.He now faces additional penalties for contempt of court, potentially extending his incarceration. Authorities will initiate extradition proceedings to return Tanke to Wisconsin to address the original charges.
Tanke was initially convicted in 2013 for a separate sexual assault against a 13-year-old. Court records indicate he and Arden Blumer, then 19, jointly attacked the victim on two distinct occasions.
Prior to the 2013 conviction, Tanke served time for falsely reporting a kidnapping and assault to law enforcement. He was on probation when the charges were filed in the 2013 case, suggesting a pattern of criminal behaviour and disregard for legal mandates. The Wisconsin Department of Corrections confirmed Tanke was wanted for violating court orders in the ongoing case.
