LA CROSSE (WKBT) — A verdict has been reached in the Josie Dikeman homicide trial.  

After a 3-week jury trial, and roughly seven hours of deliberation, the 12-person jury found Dikeman guilty on all counts in the death of 6-year-old Alexavier “AJ” Pedrin in February of 2023.

Dikeman was found guilty of 1st Degree Reckless Homicide. The penalty for being found guilty is mandatory life imprisonment. The original charge of 1st Degree Intentional Homicide was changed by the jury. 

The jury found her guilty of a charge of Chronic Neglect of a Child (Consequence is Death). If found guilty in Wisconsin, the maximum penalty is 60 years in prison.

And a guilty verdict was reached on a count of Physical Abuse of a Child, Repeated Acts Causing Death. A guilty verdict is mandatory life imprisonment.

Due to the severity of the charges, the court decided to revoke Dikeman’s bond. 

Pedrin was found unresponsive at home in Medary on February 11 2023 and was pronounced dead on scene. An autopsy revealed Pedrin died from blunt force trauma. A medical examiner testified that the child had multiple bruises on his face, scalp and neck, as well as internal injuries including a torn liver and brain swelling. Xanax found in the child’s system also contributed to his death, according to testimony.

Dikeman was arrested in connection to his death on May 22, 2023, and charged with 1st Degree Intentional Homicide. 

Dikeman is expected to be sentenced in around 60 days.

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