Northeast Iowa Detective Receives Recognition for Finding Justice for Murder Victim

A northeast Iowa detective is being recognized by the state for his efforts to find justice for a teenage murder victim almost a decade ago.

As part of Iowa’s recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April19–25), Detective Chris Wuebker of the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office was awarded the 2026 Law Enforcement Victim Service Award on Wednesday (04.22). The annual award represents the highest federal honor in Iowa for victim services by a law enforcement officer.

Wuebker was nominated for his work in the investigation and prosecution of 66-year-old James Bachmurski in the death of Jade Colvin, the 14-year-old girl last seen in March 2017 at Bachmurski’s home near Decorah. He was found guilty of second-degree murder in September 2025 and sentenced to up to 50 years in prison, with 35 years mandatory before he can become eligible for parole. By then, Bachmurski would be 101. 

Those who nominated Wuebker described him as “perseverant,” “diligent,” and “compassionate.” As the lead investigator, Detective Wuebker demonstrated extraordinary patience, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. Throughout the case, he never lost sight of the person at the center of the investigation – Jade Colvin.

During the investigation, the Sheriff’s Office operated under two guiding principles: “Justice for Jade” and “No Stone Left Unturned.” Detective Wuebker not only embraced these principles, he exemplified them. 

The Jade Colvin case was recently chronicled with an episode of the crime doc series, “48 Hours,” which aired April 18th on CBS.