Future of downtown La Crosse music venue in doubt, following sexual abuse of teens accusations

La Crosse police say they have not been asked, yet, to investigate charges of criminal misconduct, including sexual abuse, against the long-time executive director of the Warehouse on Pearl Street.

The Warehouse is an alcohol-free music venue for people of all ages.

The Warehouse Alliance said it has cut ties with the owner of the building, Stephen Harm, who has also been director of the organization.

One board member with the Warehouse resigned, calling attention to reports that Harm has been involved in grooming and abusive behavior with teenage females.

Board member Ben Koch said in a written statement posted online that it would be “virtually impossible” to keep the Warehouse going following the allegations against Harm.

Koch added that the Warehouse organization must be dissolved. There appears to be no current court cases in La Crosse County involving the operation of the Warehouse.

The Warehouse organization’s board recently learned of claims that Harm was accused of sexual activity with underage girls over a period of years.

The upstairs venue at the corner of 4th and Pearl has been a concert location and a gathering place for young people since the 1990s.