Eau Claire, WI — In a disturbing development that has reopened painful wounds and shaken the community, Robert Karstensen, 82, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, has been formally charged with 11 counts of crimes related to the sexual assault of a child, according to the Eau Claire County District Attorney’s Office. The charges stem from a lengthy investigation into incidents alleged to have occurred during the 1990s and early 2000s.
Karstensen was taken into custody following a criminal investigation by local authorities, which uncovered a pattern of abuse stretching back decades. The allegations involve multiple minors and span several years, suggesting what investigators believe was a calculated and long-term pattern of predatory behavior.
What makes this case even more harrowing is that investigators now believe that additional victims may have yet to come forward. During the course of the investigation, detectives uncovered information suggesting that Karstensen may have victimized other children during his time spent at the Chetek River Campground near Chetek, Wisconsin, between 1994 and 1998. Officials are urging anyone who had interactions with Karstensen during this time—particularly those who were minors or knew children who may have been alone with him—to come forward.
“These are extremely serious allegations,” said a representative from the Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Office. “We are committed to giving survivors a voice and ensuring justice is pursued fully and fairly.”
Authorities stress that no victim should feel alone. Coming forward can be a painful and emotional experience, but it can also be a powerful act of courage—and a critical step in bringing closure, accountability, and potentially protecting others from future harm.
If you believe you may have been a victim of Robert Karstensen, or if you have any information related to the case, you are urged to contact:
Detective Jason Olson
Phone: (715) 637-6747
All calls will be handled with compassion and discretion. Law enforcement is working closely with victim advocates and trauma-informed professionals to support survivors throughout the investigative process.
This case underscores the devastating, long-lasting impact of child sexual abuse—and the importance of holding alleged perpetrators accountable, regardless of how many years have passed. Community members are encouraged to speak up, support one another, and seek justice for those who were harmed.
Karstensen is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. His first court appearance is pending, and additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
If you or someone you know has experienced abuse, resources are available:
- National Sexual Assault Hotline – 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Wisconsin Coalition Against Sexual Assault – www.wcasa.org
- Local advocacy centers and crisis services are available throughout Eau Claire and Barron counties.
Justice may take time, but survivors deserve to be heard.
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