Jensen Retrial Day 14: Defendant's Sister Testifies

Jensen Retrial Day 14: Defendant’s Sister Testifies

Mark’s Sister Laura Koster (Jensen)
(Photo by Nathan DeBruin for Kenosha County Eye)

The 14th day of Mark Jensen’s retrial for the alleged 1998 antifreeze death of his wife Julie, is in the books.

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Dr. Lindsey Thomas, MD Forensic Pathologist
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

Dr. Lindsey Thomas, MD is a board-certified forensic pathologist. She testified that she has completed about 5,000 autopsies in her career. Upon her direct examination from the defense, Dr. Thomas testified that through her review of the death of Julie, there was no conclusive evidence of homicide, but significant evidence to support a suicide.

Special Prosecutor Bob Jambois
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

Upon her cross examination, Special Prosecutor Bob Jambois went through the entire case with Dr. Thomas – almost every piece of evidence and almost every witness statement. Jambois spoke with his usual, dramatic, and over-acting-like voice. When Jambois didn’t like a response to his question, he would ask it over and over again. Finally, Dr. Thomas asked him “Would it be rude if I told you that we’ve been through this many times before?” “No” quipped Jambois. Through the several back-and-forths, Thomas stood her ground.

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Laura Koster, Mark’s Sister
(Photo by Nathan DeBruin for Kenosha County Eye)

The second and final witness of the day was Laura Koster, Mark Jensen’s sister. She testified that after Mark and Julie met, she eventually became best friends with Julie. She was asked to the be maid of honor in Julie and Mark’s wedding. She also recounted the event, where Julie’s mother had an alcohol-induced seizure the night before the wedding. Laura brought her son to be watched by Julie while she was at work every day. This ended one day when something bizarre happened. Julie called Laura and told her that the kids had smeared feces all over the walls. Laura called Mark and told him to “get [his] ass over there.” Mark beat her to the house, but the two didn’t see any feces anywhere. This concerned Laura, who stopped bringing her son to be cared for by Julie after this. Julie had lunch with Laura soon after she started seeing Perry Tarica, Julie’s extramarital lover. She told Laura that she wanted to marry this man and not to tell Mark about Perry. Laura did not tell Mark about the affair. Koster testified that Julie filed for divorce at one point, but then dismissed the court action soon after. Julie also told Laura shortly before her death, that she thought Mark was trying to kill her. Laura told Julie that she would take her away and not let Mark near her if she wanted. Julie declined. Julie told Laura that she was going to be treated for depression and would be gone for a while.

The defense team is expected to rest Monday.

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Defense Attorney Mackenzie Renner
(Photo by Nathan DeBruin for Kenosha County Eye)

Attorney Jeremy Perri
(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)

Author

Kevin Mathewson

Kevin Mathewson is a disciple of Christ, husband and a father to two wonderful children. Mathewson was born and raised in Lake County, IL and worked as a police & fire dispatcher from 2005 to 2010 in Round Lake Beach, IL. Mathewson moved to Kenosha County in 2006, later being elected to the position of Alderman of the 8th District in 2012 and 2016. Mathewson is a private investigator, security contractor, journalist, and photographer. He enjoys spending time with his family, watching movies, camping and boating. His favorite amendment is the second, followed closely by the first. He loves his country and community.

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4 Responses

Judith+A+Lindemann says:

Jan 28, 2023 at 12:18 PM

I watch that examination yesterday. Where we seeing the same thing? I saw nothing of the behavior you report in Bob Jambois. I felt his questioning was calm and respectful. I get it Kevin. You don’t like the man. You need to be fair.

1

Reply
1. Anonymous says:
  
  Jan 28, 2023 at 8:26 PM
  
  I agree with Kevin, I also have been watching everyday
  
  1
  
  Reply
Anonymous says:

Jan 28, 2023 at 8:23 PM

What do you think of attorney wearing a nose ring in trial?

Reply
Anonymous says:

Jan 30, 2023 at 2:30 AM

Jambois doesn’t like something…..just hand him the box of tissues.

Reply