An Iowa man convicted of murdering a teenage girl who was last seen on his farm has been sentenced to 50 years in prison.
James Bachmurski, 66, was found guilty of second-degree murder in the death of 15-year-old Jade Colvin, according to reports from KCRG, KCCI, and KTTC.
During the trial, prosecutors told jurors that in a second interview with investigators, Bachmurski admitted, “You know what? I already, a long time ago, figured I’d go to the grave before I tell the truth.”
Before his sentencing, Bachmurski’s defense team filed a motion requesting a new trial, arguing that the evidence presented to the jury was insufficient to prove guilt, KCRG reported. The judge denied the request.
Authorities said Colvin’s mother brought her to live on Bachmurski’s farm in the spring of 2017, though it remains unclear why. The teenager was last seen two days after arriving at the property, according to police.
In court, Colvin’s sister, Shalie Cinok, addressed Bachmurski directly, calling him a coward. “You preyed on a child because no one your own age wanted you,” she said, according to KCRG. “You saw a young woman, a trusting girl, and decided to take advantage of her kindness. And when you couldn’t control her, you murdered her.”
Cinok continued, describing him as “a pathetic, worthless predator,” and concluded, “I hope prison shows you no mercy in the way that you showed none to Jade.”
