What was scheduled to be a pre-trial hearing Thursday changed drastically in Cottonwood County District Court, as 39-year-old Jamie Voelker pled guilty to second-degree murder without intent while committing a felony and to first-degree burglary of a dwelling while occupied.
The charges stem from an incident on July 23, 2025, that resulted in the shooting death of 70-year-old Kathryn Voelker, the mother of the defendant.
Voelker accepted a Norgaard plea in the case, meaning he admitted to being guilty of the crimes even though he did not remember committing them and that the state had sufficient evidence to prove his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
As part of the hearing, prosecutors outlined the evidence they had planned to present to prove required elements for each count of the case, including body camera video from officers responding to the scene, testimony from medical examiners and testimony from witnesses.
By accepting the plea, Voelker agreed he was making no claim of innocence.
Judge Christina Wietzema noted the plea from the defendant was accurate and voluntary and that the agreement had a strong factual basis.
County Attorney Nick Anderson noted that a pre-sentence investigation will be conducted and that both the prosecution and defense will be able to argue sentencing.
Sentencing in the case was scheduled for Sept. 30 at 1 p.m.
More on this story will appear in the Aug. 5 print and e-editions of the Citizen.
