Support your local businesses

WAUKON, Iowa — A northeast Iowa man accused of killing his wife earlier this year is seeking new legal counsel. Brandon Kasemeier, 40, is charged with first-degree murder in the death of his estranged wife, Jami Kasemeier. Brandon was arrested after Waukon Police found her deceased inside their residence in the 100 Block of 1st Avenue Southwest on January 22. An empty handgun case and several .22 caliber cartridge casings were also recovered from the scene. It is believed Jami Kasemeier was killed on January 21, the last day family members reported hearing from her. On January 23, the Larimer County Sheriff's Office arrested Brandon Kasemeier in Loveland, Colorado, approximately 900 miles away. During Kasemeier's affect, a .22 caliber revolver was allegedly found in his car. Kasemeier initially entered a not guilty plea. However, in April, his defense counsel, Aaron Hawbaker, filed for "further proceedings for the purpose of a change of plea and sentencing as the parties have reached an agreement." Consequently, his trial was canceled. Allamakee County Attorney Anthony Gericke stated that Kasemeier would be pleading guilty to a charge of second-degree murder. This charge carries a sentence of 50 years in prison, with a mandatory 70% of the sentence required to be served before any consideration of parole. Kasemeier was initially held without bond, later changed to a $1,000,000 cash-only bond due to his flight from Iowa. He had originally entered a written plea of "not guilty" on March 11 and demanded a speedy trial, which was later waived, allowing for further discussions and the eventual plea agreement. On July 1, a judge will also hear a request by Hawbaker to withdraw as Kasemeier's legal counsel. In his motion, filed on June 18, Hawbaker noted that a 30-minute conversation with Kasemeier earlier that day revealed a serious breakdown in their attorney-client relationship. On June 20, Kasemeier filed an application to be appointed new counsel. Join the community of savvy subscribers (for free)! Get the latest updates, tips, and insider information by subscribing to the free newsletter today.

Support your local businesses

Northeast Iowa Man Accused of Killing Wife Seeks New Legal Counsel