realestate

Milwaukee real estate agent accused of domestic abuse, violence against women

Austin Parie Chronister, 38, faces charges in a sexual assault and human trafficking case.

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rosecutors have charged a Milwaukee real estate agent, Austin Parie Chronister, 38, with human trafficking, false imprisonment, and two counts of second-degree sexual assault. The charges stem from allegations that Chronister subjected women living in his home to violent punishment, including physical and sexual abuse. According to the complaint, one woman reported being forced to complete household tasks or face consequences such as being hit, choked, tripped, and kicked. Her paychecks were monitored by a defense attorney who also controlled access to her vital records.

    The same woman claimed that Chronister placed her in a headlock during non-consensual sex, cutting off her breathing until she passed out. Another woman reported being violently beaten in 2023 when she tried to leave the house and was subsequently sexually assaulted while unconscious. Prosecutors say that residents of the home were forced to sign contracts with rules including regular payments and "sex on demand."

    If convicted of all charges, Chronister could face up to 111 years in prison. A Milwaukee defense attorney has also been named in the complaint but not charged, allegedly controlling access to key documents for women living in the house.

    Wisconsin real estate records list Chronister as an agent with Mahler Sotheby's International Realty in Milwaukee, although the brokerage does not currently list him on their website. Two women have come forward as victims of Chronister's abuse, and prosecutors brought charges on their behalf.

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