A murder trial in Cottonwood County came to an unexpected end Thursday afternoon after 39-year-old Jamie Voelker entered guilty pleas instead of proceeding with a scheduled pre-trial hearing. Voelker pleaded guilty to second-degree murder without intent while committing a felony and first-degree burglary in connection with the July 23, 2025, shooting death of his 70-year-old mother, Kathryn Voelker. The plea was entered as a Norgaard plea, meaning Voelker acknowledged he does not remember committing the crimes because of his intoxication at the time, but admitted the State has enough evidence to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. During Thursday’s hearing, Voelker told the court he had been using methamphetamine, THC and cocaine before the incident. Assistant Minnesota Attorney General John Gross outlined the evidence prosecutors would have presented at trial, including testimony from the medical examiner, responding officers, BCA investigators, body camera video, ballistics evidence linking shell casings to a .22-caliber handgun recovered from the home, and testimony from Voelker’s son, who prosecutors said witnessed the shooting. As part of the burglary charge, prosecutors said they would have presented evidence that Voelker forced his way into another occupied Windom residence without permission, causing significant damage inside the home. Judge Christina Wietzema questioned Voelker extensively to ensure he understood the rights he was giving up by pleading guilty. Voelker confirmed he was not claiming innocence and agreed there was a substantial likelihood a jury would find him guilty based on the evidence presented. Before the plea was accepted, Voelker briefly addressed the court, saying, “I’m sorry for what I have done.” Judge Wietzema accepted the guilty pleas, finding they were knowingly, voluntarily and intelligently made and supported by a strong factual basis. The remaining charges in the case will be dismissed under the plea agreement. A pre-sentence investigation has been ordered, and because the plea agreement is an open plea, both the prosecution and defense will be allowed to argue for an appropriate sentence. Sentencing has been scheduled for September 30th at 1:00 p.m. in Cottonwood County District Court.
—————————————–
The Windom Area School Board recognized Superintendent Jamie Frank during Monday night’s meeting as Board President Angie Klassen presented the annual superintendent evaluation summary. Klassen said the board met with Frank several weeks ago to review the evaluation and reported that she received very high marks in every category. According to the board’s summary, Frank consistently demonstrates excellent leadership, professionalism and dedication to the success of the district. The evaluation praised Frank for developing a clear vision for the district, fostering a positive school culture, maintaining strong relationships with staff, students, families and the community, and keeping the school board informed through timely and transparent communication. Klassen also highlighted Frank’s leadership in the creation of the Windom Vision Committee and her integral role in developing the new daycare facility at the Highland Building, including work involving licensing, construction and finances. Board comments included praise for Frank’s visibility within the schools, strong financial stewardship, focus on the future, collaborative leadership style and commitment to providing the best education possible for Windom students. The evaluation concluded that Frank exceeds expectations in all areas and serves as an outstanding leader for the district. Klassen thanked Frank for her dedication and said the board looks forward to her continued leadership at Windom Area Schools.
—————————————————————
Today is not only the last day of July but it marks the last call for our Sports Director Zach Polk. It just seems like yesterday when we were being bombarded with calls on what KDOM was going to do now that Dirk was retiring? We weren’t worried as there was a new kid on the block named Zach and given time he was sure to win over the hearts of all of our sports fans. At KDOM we know firsthand how change can be hard and even though we are sad to see Zach go, we can’t help but be happy for him for moving back home to his greatest love… Nebraska. Zach, truly, we wish you the best of luck and hope you find your Nitch in Nebraska like you found here at KDOM. Good Luck and may you find that perfect spiral in this next chapter of your life! Here we are again with the e-mails and the calls and the being stopped in the streets… What ever is KDOM going to do… We honestly aren’t worried… We once again have a new kid on the block and we believe given a chance he is going to grow into one of your favorite play by play sports broadcasters. He is fresh out of college, has a love of sports an amazing voice and a hankering to tell you all the sporting statistics. We truly are excited over the potential that lies before us as our New Sports Director Noah Riederer takes the mic tonight in his first debut at the Pirates Game. It can be heard on Hot Country 94.3 FM. Old and New… First and Last… Noah and Zach will be bringing an epic game on the radio! And finally, if you’re sitting there saying, ‘I’m not really a sports fan’… no problem! As your TOTAL Radio Station, KDOM is always keeping you up with what’s trending and today it’s National Avocado Day! So go ahead and treat yourself to some guacamole. After all, good news, good sports, and good snacks are always a winning combination!