Man Charged In Pardeeville Fatal Stabbing
Suspect Says He Acted In Self-Defense
Posted: 6:24 pm CDT June 25, 2009
PORTAGE, Wis. -- A man accused in a fatal stabbing in Pardeeville was charged Thursday in Columbia County Circuit Court.James J. Henke, 46, was charged with eight counts, including a charge of first-degree intentional homicide.Henke is accused of killing Thomas Kratz, 43, early Tuesday morning in downtown Pardeeville after the two were engaged in a fight.The criminal complaint said Henke believes he acted in self-defense after Kratz struck him with a pipe."While I realize that the accusation here is a serious one, we really do not know whether first-degree intentional homicide will stick given that there appear to be very strong self-defense issues," said Liz Mitchell, Henke's attorney.Henke faces life in prison if convicted of first-degree intentional homicide.The complaint said the two were fighting over Henke's alleged treatment of an ex-girlfriend.
Previous Stories:
- June 24, 2009: 1 Dead, 1 Jailed In Pardeeville Stabbing
- June 23, 2009: Authorities Investigate Pardeeville Death
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