James Radford (Shawano Co. Jail)
SHAWANO, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The Shawano County Sheriff’s Office is explaining why it took nine years to bring charges against a man accused of killing his wife.
In a news release Tuesday, Sheriff George Lenzner said when investigators were first notified of the death of Sabrina Radford on April 11, 2016, they were unable to conclusively determine the cause of death.
Radford’s husband, James, reported the death and said his wife had shot herself.
Over the next nine years, investigators “dedicated significant time and effort” to the case, the sheriff said. The investigation included interviews with James Radford and other people connected to the case. Previously collected evidence was reexamined. It took what the sheriff called advances in investigative tools and forensic technology, along with expert witnesses to determine that Sabrina Radford’s death was not the result of a suicide.
On April 11, 2025, James Radford was charged with reckless homicide. According to the criminal complaint, the 39-year-old told deputies he found out his wife had been cheating on him. He told her he would divorce her.
Evidence at the scene did not corroborate Radford’s account of his wife’s death, prosecutors said.
In the news release, Lenzner said:
We recognize that this press release does not include all details of the investigation. However, as this case is now under the jurisdiction of the Shawano County District Attorney’s Office, we are committed to protecting its integrity to ensure that justice is served.
An $800,000 cash bond was set for Radford. He is due back in court June 9.
Sabrina Radford’s family released this statement Tuesday:
After nine years, law enforcement has made an arrest connected to the case involving Sabrina. We are grateful for the continued efforts of the investigators who have remained committed to uncovering the truth and seeking justice.
We ask that you respect the privacy of Sabrina’s family, as they process this significant development. We will allow the criminal justice system to proceed with its work.
Out of respect for the legal process and those involved, we will not be making additional comments at this time.
Thank you,
The Family of Sabrina Radford
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