A Wisconsin man was arrested last month for the murder of his wife, eight years after he claimed that she shot herself.
James C. Radford, who is now 39 years old, dialed 911 on April 11, 2016, to report that Sabrina Radford had shot herself, according to the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office. Upon arrival, deputies discovered her deceased at the age of 25.
The initial investigation was unable to say conclusively that she had shot herself, however, and detectives began a long probe of the fatal shooting.
The sheriff’s office conducted various interviews with James Radford and other involved individuals, alongside reviewing previously collected evidence. Through the utilization of advanced investigative techniques, updated forensic technology, and insights from expert witnesses, investigators concluded that Sabrina Radford’s passing was not a result of suicide.
Subsequently, the sheriff’s office passed on their findings to the district attorney of the county, suggesting charges to be filed. As a result, James Radford was taken into custody on a charge of reckless homicide.
The sheriff’s office did not provide further information about their investigation, but, according to the complaint filed with the arrest, Radford’s story that his wife had shot herself in the chest, while holding the large, .44 caliber weapon in both hands, didn’t stand up to scrutiny, Law&Crime reported.
For one thing, authorities said, the weapon had no blowback material or blood on the barrel or muzzle, although there was a considerable amount of blood on her clothes and body. There was no blood on her chest, however, despite Radford’s claim that he had attempted CPR before medics arrived, which would have spread blood on her chest.
Authorities also believe they heard Radford say “I can’t believe I shot her” on the 911 call.
Prosecutors say the motive for the shooting was jealousy.
Deb Bell, Sabrina Radford’s aunt, told WGBA In a statement on behalf of Sabrina’s family, her aunt, Deb Bell, tells me they are “grateful for the continued efforts of the investigators who have remained committed to uncovering the truth and seeking justice.” that the family is “grateful for the continued efforts of the investigators who have remained committed to uncovering the truth and seeking justice.”
The sheriff’s office said that Radford was taken into custody in Waukesha County and transported back to Shawano County, where his bond was set at $800,000. His next court appearance is June 9, WGBA said.
