Walker hopes John Doe investigation finally ends

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Gov. Scott Walker says he hopes Milwaukee County prosecutors’ secret probe into his former county associates and campaign donors ends this week.

The probe began in 2010 during Walker’s stint as Milwaukee County executive. Three former aides, a donor and a former appointee have been charged with crimes ranging from misconduct in office to theft.

The only one who hasn’t been convicted is former aide Timothy Russell. He plans to enter a plea agreement Thursday to settle a felony embezzlement case.

Prosecutors haven’t accused Walker of any wrongdoing. During a question-and-answer period with the audience at a Wisconsin Dairy Association conference in Madison on Tuesday, Walker said he hopes the investigation will end this week.

Assistant District Attorney Bruce Landgraf, who is leading the investigation, declined to comment.