New statements issued on arrest of man nine years after wife’s death

SHAWANO COUNTY, Wis. (WBAY) - The Shawano County Sheriff’s Office issued a new statement Tuesday on the arrest of a man for the death of his wife from nine years ago.

Sabrina Radford died on April 11, 2016. Her husband, James Radford, told authorities at the time that his wife had shot herself.

James Radford was arrested last month. The criminal complaint filed on April 11, 2025, details evidence that suggests inconsistencies in Radford’s statements to police about his wife’s death, but it does not explain the nine-year gap between Sabrina’s death and Radford’s arrest.

“At the time of the initial response, investigators were unable to conclusively determine the cause of death,” the sheriff’s office said. “However, due to the suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident, a formal investigation was initiated.”

The sheriff’s office said investigators dedicated “significant time and effort” to this case over the past nine years. Authorities interviewed Radford multiple times, and reexamined previously collected evidence.

“With the aid of advanced investigative tools, evolving forensic technology, and the involvement of expert witnesses, investigators determined that the death of Sabrina Radford was not the result of suicide,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.

Following these findings, the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office presented its case to the Shawano County District Attorney’s Office with a recommendation to file charges. As a result, on April 15, 2025, James Radford was taken into custody in Waukesha County and was booked into Shawano County Jail on a charge of First-Degree Reckless Homicide.

He has since been formally charged in Shawano County Circuit Court, and cash bond has been set at $800,000. As of Tuesday, the sheriff’s office said Radford remains in custody.

“We recognize that this press release does not include all details of the investigation,” the sheriff’s office said. “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.”

“Our deepest condolences go out to Sabrina’s family. We understand the past nine years have been long and difficult, but please know that this case was never forgotten. Our office has worked diligently to bring answers and accountability.”

Radford is due back in court for a status conference on June 9. He faces a potential sentence of 65 years if convicted.

Sabrina Radford’s family issued a statement to Action 2 News:

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