WI - Rhonda Cegelski, 58 and Paula O'Connor, 53, stabbed to death, Green Bay, Jan 2023 *suspect arrested in Arkansas*

[ifindedout]

Note: the first link contains ******** campaigns.

Victims of double homicide in Green Bay identified by authorities

The two women were found dead Sunday. A suspect is awaiting extradition back to Wisconsin.

www.wbay.com

A witness told investigators that Richard Sotka had been dating one of the victims. Detectives identified Sotka as a person of interest in the case. They learned Sotka had open cases out of Oconto County and an active restraining order against him. One of the cases is for stalking. Part of the bond conditions in the Oconto County stalking case includes wearing an electronic monitoring device that confirms Sotka’s location. He was being monitored by a company called ADL Monitoring Solutions.

Man walks in on girlfriend with another woman before 'stabbing them to death'

Richard Wendell Sotka, 48, was arrested in Mississippi County, Arkansas, US, by police 10 hours after the brutal double killing. He told police he felt humiliated after walking in on the two in a compromising position

www.mirror.co.uk

Sotka was on bail on charges of stalking and harassment and violating a restraining order, at the time of the killings.

He had removed his electronic ankle tag and dumped it on Interstate Highway 41, local media reported.

ETA: crime occurred on Jan. 29, 2023.

 

[Niner]

Since I can access the Wisconsin court site - I shall follow this case. Looks like no date yet for a hearing. I believe he might still be in Arkansas awaiting extradition.

from the Court site:

Count no. Statute Description Severity Disposition
1 940.01(1)(a) 1st-Degree Intentional Homicide Felony A
Modifier: 939.63(1)(b) Use of a Dangerous Weapon
Modifier: 973.055(1) Domestic Abuse Assessments

2 940.01(1)(a) 1st-Degree Intentional Homicide Felony A
Modifier: 939.63(1)(b) Use of a Dangerous Weapon

3 946.49(1)(b) Bail Jumping-Felony Felony H


Defendant
Defendant name: Sotka, Richard W
Date of birth: 07-26-1974
Sex: Male
Race: Caucasian


Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
02-01-2023 Arrest warrant issued for Sotka, Richard W Burke, Paul
Additional text:
Warrant was emailed to BRSD - SM

02-01-2023 Arrest warrant authorized for Sotka, Richard W Burke, Paul

02-01-2023 Electronic Filing Notice

02-01-2023 Case initiated by electronic filing

02-01-2023 Complaint filed

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Oops - I guess I forgot about this case... missed a couple of hearings.


Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
03-10-2023 Demand for Discovery and Inspection - Defendant

03-10-2023 Arraignment Liegeois, Beau G Fick, Jennifer
Additional text:
Defendant Richard W Sotka in court via zoom from BCJ; Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court in person; for Richard W Sotka. Attorney Foss Davis in court in person; for State of Wisconsin. Victims appear in person; Present bond continued
Status conference scheduled for May 1, 2023 at 02:30 pm.

03-02-2023 Notice
Additional text:
of Intent to Introduce DNA Evidence

03-01-2023 Notice of hearing
Additional text:
Arraignment on March 10, 2023 at 11:00 am.

02-23-2023 Information

02-22-2023 Prelim questionnaire and waiver

02-22-2023 Waiver of preliminary hearing Burke, Paul Maroszek, Angela
Additional text:
Defendant appeared in custody with Atty. Rock
Assistant District Attorney Aaron Linssen appears on behalf of the State.
Present bond continued

02-22-2023 Notice of Completion

02-22-2023 Notice of Completion

02-20-2023 Notes
Additional text:
Defendant's attorney Kirk B Obear called to confirm hearing on 2/22/23 at 10:30 AM.

02-17-2023 Notice of retainer
02-17-2023 Notice of retainer

02-15-2023 Demand for Discovery and Inspection - Defendant
02-15-2023 Public defender order appointing counsel
02-15-2023 Public defender order appointing counsel

02-13-2023 Warrant/Capias/Commitment served for Sotka, Richard W

02-13-2023 Other papers
Additional text:
Court Commissioner's Bond Recommendation

02-13-2023 Cash bond signed

02-13-2023 Cash bond set for Sotka, Richard W Burke, Paul $2,000,000.00
Additional text:
Defendant to have no contact with R.C.'s family and P.O.'s family or their residence or place of employment.

02-13-2023 Return on warrant/Initial appearance Burke, Paul Maroszek, Angela
Additional text:
Defendant Richard W Sotka in court, in custody at Brown County Jail. Attorney Amanda Toonen in court for Richard W Sotka. Prosecuting attorney Kevin Charles Greene in court for the State of Wisconsin.
Preliminary hearing scheduled for February 22, 2023 at 10:30 am.

02-13-2023 Report


Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
05-01-2023 02:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Status conference Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Monday, May 1st:
*Status Conference Hearing (@ 2:30pm ET) - WI - *Rhonda Cegelski (58) & Paula O'Connor (53), stabbed to death, Jan. 29, 2023, Green Bay - *Richard Wendell Sotka (48) bf of Rhonda arrested (in Mississippi County, Arkansas on 1/30/23; arrest warrant filed 2/1/23), charged (2/1/23) & arraigned (3/10/23) with 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon & domestic abuse assessments) & 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon) & 1 count of felony bail jumping. Extradited from Arkansas to Wisconsin (2/2/23). Bond $2M. Plead not guilty.
A witness told investigators that Sotka had been dating one of the victims. Detectives identified Sotka as a person of interest in the case. They learned Sotka had open cases out of Oconto County & an active restraining order against him. One of the cases is for stalking. Part of the bond conditions in the Oconto County stalking case includes wearing an electronic monitoring device that confirms Sotka’s location. He was being monitored by a company called ADL Monitoring Solutions. Sotka was on bail on charges of stalking & harassment & violating a restraining order, at the time of the killings. He had removed his electronic ankle tag & dumped it on Interstate Highway 41, local media reported.
1/30/23 Update: Richard Wendell Sotka, 48, was arrested in Mississippi County, Arkansas, US, by police 10 hours after the brutal double killing. He told police he felt humiliated after walking in on the two in a compromising position. Green Bay Police Dept. said in a statement: "Sotka, of Green Bay, is in custody as a suspect & facing charges, which include First-Degree Intentional Homicide. He is currently being held at the Mississippi County Detention Center in Arkansas, while awaiting extradition back to Wisconsin.
2/1/23: Complaint filed. Case initiated by electronic filing. Arrest warrant authorized for Sotka. Warrant was emailed to BRSD. 2/13/23 Update: Return on warrant/initial appearance. Defendant Sotka in court, in custody at Brown County Jail. Attorney Amanda Toonen in court for Sotka. Prosecuting attorney Kevin Charles Greene in court for the State of Wisconsin. Preliminary hearing scheduled for 2/22/23. Cash bond set @ $2M. defendant to have no contact with R.C. or P.O.'s family or their residence or place of employment. Cash bond signed. Court Commissioner's bond recommendation. Warrant/Capias/Commitment served for Sotka. 2/15/23 Update: Public defender Order appointing counsel. Defendant demand for Discovery & inspection. 2/17/23: Notice of retainer. 2/20/23: Defendant's attorney Kirk B. O’Bear called to confirm hearing on 2/22/23. 2/22/23 Update: Waiver of preliminary hearing. Defendant appeared, in custody & attorney Rock, assistant DA Aaron Linssen on behalf of State. Present bond continued. Preliminary questionnaire & waiver.
3/1/23: Notice of arraignment hearing on 3/10/23. 3/2/23: Notice of intent to introduce DNA evidence. 3/10/23 Update: Arraignment hearing held. Defendant Sotka in court via zoom from BCJ; attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court in person for Sotka. Attorney Foss Davis in court in person; for State. Victims appear in person; Bond continued. Next status conference scheduled for 5/1/23 @ 2:30pm. Defendant's demand for discovery & inspection.

 

[Niner]

Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
05-01-2023 Status conference Liegeois, Beau G Fick, Jennifer
Additional text:
Deputy District Attorney Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Richard W Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Richard W Sotka.
Status conference scheduled for July 14, 2023 at 03:00 pm.


Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
07-14-2023 03:00 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Status conference Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Friday, July 14th:
*Status Conference Hearing (@ 3pm ET) - WI - *Rhonda Cegelski (58) & Paula O'Connor (53), stabbed to death, Jan. 29, 2023, Green Bay - *Richard Wendell Sotka (48) bf of Rhonda arrested (in Mississippi County, Arkansas on 1/30/23; arrest warrant filed 2/1/23), charged (2/1/23) & arraigned (3/10/23) with 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon & domestic abuse assessments) & 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon) & 1 count of felony bail jumping. Extradited from Arkansas to Wisconsin (2/2/23). Bond $2M. Plead not guilty.
Case & Court info from 1/30/23 thru 3/2/23 reference post #4 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...tka-48-arrested-in-arkansas-green-bay.662958/
3/10/23 Update: Arraignment hearing held. Defendant Sotka in court via zoom from BCJ; attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court in person for Sotka. Attorney Foss Davis in court in person; for State. Victims appear in person; Bond continued. Next status conference scheduled for 5/1/23 @ 2:30pm. Defendant's demand for discovery & inspection.
5/1/23 Update: Status conference held with Beau G. Liegeois presiding. Deputy DA Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant in court in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Sotka. Status conference hearing on 7/14/23 @ 3pm.

 

[Niner]

Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
07-14-2023 Status conference Liegeois, Beau G Fick, Jennifer
Additional text:
Deputy District Attorney Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Richard W Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Richard W Sotka. Present bond continued
Status conference scheduled for August 21, 2023 at 09:30 am.


Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
08-21-2023 09:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Status conference Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Monday, August 21st:
*Status Conference Hearing (@ 9:30am ET) - WI - *Rhonda Cegelski (58) & Paula O'Connor (53), stabbed to death, Jan. 29, 2023, Green Bay - *Richard Wendell Sotka (48/now 49) bf of Rhonda arrested (in Mississippi County, Arkansas on 1/30/23; arrest warrant filed 2/1/23), charged (2/1/23) & arraigned (3/10/23) with 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon & domestic abuse assessments) & 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon) & 1 count of felony bail jumping. Extradited from Arkansas to Wisconsin (2/2/23). Bond $2M. Plead not guilty.
Case & Court info from 1/30/23 thru 3/10/23 reference post #6 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...tka-48-arrested-in-arkansas-green-bay.662958/
5/1/23 Update: Status conference held with Beau G. Liegeois presiding. Deputy DA Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant in court in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Sotka. Status conference hearing on 7/14/23 @ 3pm.
7/14/23 Update: Deputy District Attorney Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Sotka. Present bond continued. Status conference scheduled for 8/21/23 at 09:30am.

 

[JerseyGirl]

Richard Sotka gets trial date for Green Bay double homicide case

The man accused of killing two women in Green Bay while wearing an ankle monitor will stand trial next March.

www.wbay.com

At the hearing earlier Monday, both sides said they were ready to move to trial. Jury selection will start on March 5th, next year.

 

[Niner]

Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
08-21-2023 Status conference Liegeois, Beau G Fick, Jennifer
Additional text:
Deputy District Attorney Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Richard W Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Richard W Sotka. Present bond continued
Motion hearing scheduled for January 9, 2024 at 02:30 pm.
Final pre-trial scheduled for March 1, 2024 at 01:30 pm.
Jury selection scheduled for March 5, 2024 at 01:30 pm.
Jury trial scheduled for March 6, 2024 at 08:30 am.


Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
01-09-2024 02:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Motion hearing Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-01-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Final pre-trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-05-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury selection Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-06-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-07-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-08-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-11-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-12-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-13-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-14-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-15-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Docket updates:

Court record
Date Event Court official
01-05-2024 Letters/correspondence
Additional text:
from Atty. Rock

01-04-2024 Brief
Additional text:
Defendant's Brief in Opposition to the State's Motion to Introduce Other acts Evidence

12-21-2023 Brief
Additional text:
Other Acts Brief in Support of Motion

12-21-2023 Notice of motion, motion
Additional text:
to Admit Other Acts Evidence

12-20-2023 Motion
Additional text:
Motion for Joinder of 23CF170 and 23CF185

12-04-2023 Order Liegeois, Beau G
Additional text:
Order to Seal
The original document was titled: Defendant's Motion to Seal November 12, 2023, letter
The original history event date is: 11-13-2023

12-04-2023 Proposed Order Declined

11-22-2023 Order to Seal Document Liegeois, Beau G
Additional text:
The original document was titled: Letter to Judge regarding upcoming hearing and motion for funding
The original history event date is: 11-13-2023

11-17-2023 Status conference Liegeois, Beau G
Additional text:
Assistant District Attorney Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of the State. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock and Richard W Sotka appear in custody, via Zoom. Court orders Atty. Rock to contact the Public Defender's Office to obtain funding. Court extends deadline to file motion to 12/21/23. Present bond continued

11-17-2023 Public defender order appointing counsel

11-13-2023 Proposed Order

11-13-2023 Motion to Seal Document
Additional text:
Defendant's Motion to Seal Defendant's Motion for County Funding of Expert Witness

11-13-2023 Letters/correspondence
Additional text:
from Atty. Rock

11-02-2023 Notice of hearing
Additional text:
Status conference on November 17, 2023 at 02:30 pm.

10-05-2023 Proposed Order

10-05-2023 Proposed Order

10-05-2023 Motion to Seal Document
Additional text:
Defendant's Motion to Seal Defendant's Motion for County Funding of Expert Witness

10-05-2023 Motion
Additional text:
Defendant's Motion for County Funding of Expert Witness


Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
01-09-2024 02:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Motion hearing Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-01-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Final pre-trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-05-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury selection Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-06-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
thru
03-15-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Tuesday, January 9th:
*Motions Hearing (@ 2:30pm ET) - WI - *Rhonda Cegelski (58) & Paula O'Connor (53), stabbed to death, Jan. 29, 2023, Green Bay - *Richard Wendell Sotka (48/now 49) bf of Rhonda arrested (in Mississippi County, Arkansas on 1/30/23; arrest warrant filed 2/1/23), charged (2/1/23) & arraigned (3/10/23) with 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon & domestic abuse assessments) & 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon) & 1 count of felony bail jumping. Extradited from Arkansas to Wisconsin (2/2/23). Bond $2M. Plead not guilty.
Jury Selection set to begin on 3/5/24.
Trial set to begin on 3/6/24 (thru 3/15/24).
Judge Beau G. Liegeois. DA Dana J. Johnson. Defense attorneys Kirk B. Obear & Stephanie M. Rock.
Case & Court info from 1/30/23 thru 5/1/23 reference post #8 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...tka-48-arrested-in-arkansas-green-bay.662958/
7/14/23 Update: Deputy District Attorney Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Sotka. Present bond continued. Status conference scheduled for 8/21/23 at 9:30am.
8/21/23 Update: At the hearing earlier Monday, both sides said they were ready to move to trial. Status conference held. Judge Beau G. Lieeois presiding. Deputy DA Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Sotka. Present bond continued. Motion hearing scheduled for 1/9/24 at 2:30pm. Final pretrial scheduled for 3/1/24 at 1:30pm. Jury selection scheduled for 3/5/24 at 1:30 pm. Jury trial scheduled for 3/6/24 at 8:30am.
10/5/23 Update: Defendant's motion for County funding of expert witness. Defendant's Motion to seal defendants' motion for County funding. Proposed Order.
11/2/23 Update: Notice of status conference on 11/17/23. 11/13/23: Letters/correspondence from Attorney Rock. Defendant's motion to seal defendant's motion for County funding of expert witness. Propose d Order. 11/17/23 Update: Public defender Order appointing counsel. Assistant DA Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of the State, attorney Stephanie M. Rock & Richard W. Stotka appear & defendant in custody, via Zoom. Count Orders attorney Rock to contact the Public Defender's office to obtain funding. Court extends deadline to file motion to 12/21/23. Present bond continued. 11/22/23 Update: Order to seal document. The original document was title: Letter to Judge regarding upcoming hearing & motion for funding. The original history event date is 11/13/23.
12/4/23 Update: Proposed Order declined. Order by Judge Beau Liegois. 1/20/23 Update: Motion for Joinder of 23CF170 & 23CF185. 12/21/23 Update: Notice of motion to admit other acts evidence. Other acts Brief in support of motion.
1/4/24 Update: Defendant's Brief in opposition to the State's motion to introduce other acts evidence. 1/5/24 Update: Letters/correspondence from attorney Rock.

 

[Niner]

I will keep an eye out to see if he gets a hearing before 3/1/24.


Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
01-09-2024 Witness list - defendant
Additional text: Defendant's Witness List


Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
01-09-2024 02:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Motion hearing Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-01-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Final pre-trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-05-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury selection Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-06-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-07-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-08-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-11-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-12-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-13-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-14-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-15-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
01-09-2024 Witness list - plaintiff
Additional text:
State's

01-09-2024 Hearing Liegeois, Beau G Fick, Jennifer
Additional text:
Assistant District Attorney Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of the State. Attorney John A Birdsall appears via Zoom. Richard W Sotka appears in custody, in court. Court grants defense request for adjournment of motion hearing. Present bond continued
Motion hearing scheduled for January 30, 2024 at 02:30 pm.

Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
01-30-2024 02:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Motion hearing Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-01-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Final pre-trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-05-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury selection Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-06-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-07-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-08-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-11-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-12-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-13-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-14-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-15-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Tuesday, January 30th:
*Motions Hearing (@ 2:30pm ET) - WI - *Rhonda Cegelski (58) & Paula O'Connor (53), stabbed to death, Jan. 29, 2023, Green Bay - *Richard Wendell Sotka (48/now 49) bf of Rhonda arrested (in Mississippi County, Arkansas on 1/30/23; arrest warrant filed 2/1/23), charged (2/1/23) & arraigned (3/10/23) with 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon & domestic abuse assessments) & 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon) & 1 count of felony bail jumping. Extradited from Arkansas to Wisconsin (2/2/23). Bond $2M. Plead not guilty.
Jury Selection set to begin on 3/5/24.
Trial set to begin on 3/6/24 (thru 3/15/24).
Judge Beau G. Liegeois. DA Dana J. Johnson. Defense attorneys Kirk B. Obear & Stephanie M. Rock.
Case & Court info from 1/30/23 thru 12/4/23 reference post #12 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...jan-2023-suspect-arrested-in-arkansas.662958/
1/4/24 Update: Defendant's Brief in opposition to the State's motion to introduce other acts evidence. 1/5/24 Update: Letters/correspondence from attorney Rock. Final pretrial scheduled on 3/1/24 @ 1:30pm. Jury selection scheduled on 3/5/24 @ 1:30pm. Jury trial scheduled for 3/8/24 @ 8:30am.
1/9/24 Update: Motions hearing. Defendant's witness list. Judge Beau Liegois presiding Assistant DA Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of State, attorney John A. Birdsall appears via zoom. Sotka appears in custody, in court. Court grants defense request for adjournment of motion hearing Present bond continued. State's witness list. Next motion hearing on 1/30/24 @ 2:3opm & final retrial hearing on 3/1/24 @ 1:30pm.

 

[Niner]

Court activities
Date Time Location Description Type Court official
03-01-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Final pre-trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-05-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury selection Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-06-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-07-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-08-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-11-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-12-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-13-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-14-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-15-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
01-30-2024 Motion hearing Liegeois, Beau G Eisch, Kristin
Additional text:
Assistant District Attorney Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Richard W Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Richard W Sotka. Defense stipulates to motion for joinder. Court grants motion. Court grants partial request to admit other acts. Defense may submit a brief regarding absence of mistake by 2/13/24. State to reply by 2/16/24. Present bond continued

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Friday, March 1st:
*Final Pretrial Hearing (@ 1:30pm ET) - WI - *Rhonda Cegelski (58) & Paula O'Connor (53), stabbed to death, Jan. 29, 2023, Green Bay - *Richard Wendell Sotka (48/now 49) bf of Rhonda arrested (in Mississippi County, Arkansas on 1/30/23; arrest warrant filed 2/1/23), charged (2/1/23) & arraigned (3/10/23) with 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon & domestic abuse assessments) & 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon) & 1 count of felony bail jumping. Extradited from Arkansas to Wisconsin (2/2/23). Bond $2M. Plead not guilty.
Jury Selection set to begin on 3/5/24.
Trial set to begin on 3/6/24 (thru 3/15/24).
Judge Beau G. Liegeois. DA Dana J. Johnson. Defense attorneys Kirk B. Obear & Stephanie M. Rock.
Case & Court info from 1/30/23 thru 1/4/24 reference post #15 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...jan-2023-suspect-arrested-in-arkansas.662958/
1/9/24 Update: Motions hearing. Defendant's witness list. Judge Beau Liegois presiding Assistant DA Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of State, attorney John A. Birdsall appears via zoom. Sotka appears in custody, in court. Court grants defense request for adjournment of motion hearing Present bond continued. State's witness list. Next motion hearing on 1/30/24 @ 2:3opm & final retrial hearing on 3/1/24 @ 1:30pm.
1/30/24 Update: Motion hearing with Judge Beau G. Liegeois presiding. Assistant DA Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Sotka. Defense stipulates to motion for joinder. Court grants motion. Court grants partial request to admit other acts. Defense may submit a brief regarding absence of mistake by 2/13/24. State to reply by 2/16/24. Present bond continued. Next final pretrial hearing on 3/1/24 @ 1:30pm.

 

[Niner]

Court record
Date Event Court official Court reporter Amount
03-01-2024 Final pre-trial Liegeois, Beau G Fick, Jennifer
Additional text:
Deputy District Attorney Dana Johnson appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Richard W Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Kirk Bowden Obear in court for Richard W Sotka. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Richard W Sotka. Case is not resolved. Present bond continued

03-01-2024 Amended information
Additional text:
2nd Amended

03-01-2024 Motion in limine
Additional text:
Defense

03-01-2024 Motion in limine
Additional text:
State's

03-01-2024 Amended information
Court activities

02-19-2024 Order Liegeois, Beau G
Additional text:
Order Granting State's Motion to Admit Other Acts Evidence as to Intent and Motive

02-16-2024 Letters/correspondence
Additional text:
from DDA Johnson

02-12-2024 Letters/correspondence
Additional text:
from Atty. Rock


Date Time Location Description Type Court official
03-05-2024 01:30 pm Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury selection Court Liegeois, Beau G

03-06-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-07-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-08-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-11-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-12-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-13-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-14-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G
03-15-2024 08:30 am Brown County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Room 250 Jury trial Court Liegeois, Beau G

link: Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

 

[Niner]

Tuesday, March 5th:
*Jury Selection set to begin (@ 1:30pm ET) - WI - *Rhonda Cegelski (58) & Paula O'Connor (53), stabbed to death, Jan. 29, 2023, Green Bay - *Richard Wendell Sotka (48/now 49) bf of Rhonda arrested (in Mississippi County, Arkansas on 1/30/23; arrest warrant filed 2/1/23), charged (2/1/23) & arraigned (3/10/23) with 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon & domestic abuse assessments) & 1 count of 1st degree intentional homicide (use of a dangerous weapon) & 1 count of felony bail jumping. Extradited from Arkansas to Wisconsin (2/2/23). Bond $2M. Plead not guilty.
Jury Selection set to begin on 3/5/24.
Trial set to begin on 3/6/24 (thru 3/15/24).
Judge Beau G. Liegeois. DA Dana J. Johnson. Defense attorneys Kirk B. Obear & Stephanie M. Rock.
Case & Court info from 1/30/23 thru 1/9/24 reference post #17 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...jan-2023-suspect-arrested-in-arkansas.662958/
1/30/24 Update: Motion hearing with Judge Beau G. Liegeois presiding. Assistant DA Kevin Steuck appears on behalf of the State. Defendant Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock in court for Sotka. Defense stipulates to motion for joinder. Court grants motion. Court grants partial request to admit other acts. Defense may submit a brief regarding absence of mistake by 2/13/24. State to reply by 2/16/24. Present bond continued. Next final pretrial hearing on 3/1/24 @ 1:30pm.
2/12/24 Update: Letters/correspondence from attorney Rock. 2/16/24: Letters/correspondence from DDA Johnson. 2/19/24: Order granting State's Motion to admit other acts evidence as to intent & motive.
3/1/24 Update: Amended information re court actitivites. Motion in Limine-State's & Defense. Amended inormation-2nd amended. Final pretrical hearing held before Judge Beau Liegeois. Dept. DA Dana Johnson appears on behalf of State, defendant Sotka in court, in custody. Attorney Kirk Bowden Obear for Sotka. Attorney Stephanie M. Rock for Sotka. Case is not resolved. Present bond continued. Next jury selection on 3/5/24 @ 1:30pm. Trial begins on 3/6/24 thru 3/15/24 all at 8:30am.

 

[Niner]

Jury trial begins for Richard Sotka, accused of killing two women in Green Bay

Richard Sotka, 49, is accused of killing his girlfriend, Rhonda Cegelski, and her friend, Paula O’Connor, in January 2023.

www.wbay.com

Mar. 5, 2024

GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) - The jury trial for a man charged with killing two women in Green Bay begins Tuesday.

A jury was selected Tuesday, comprised of 8 women and 6 men, for a total of 14 jurors with 2 alternatives.
[.....]
Investigators say Sotka was wearing a GPS monitoring device for a stalking case in Oconto County which placed him at the scene. The ankle bracelet was later found in a ditch off Interstate 41, but authorities were able to locate Sotka in Arkansas through his vehicle’s onboard data system.
[.....]
His trial is scheduled to last 8 days. Opening statements are scheduled for Wednesday morning.