Georgia Man Convicted of Murdering 15-Year-Old Last Seen in NEIA Eight Years Ago Sentenced to Half-Century in Prison

A Georgia man, found guilty last month of murdering a teenage girl last seen in northeast Iowa over eight years ago, has been sentenced to a half-century in prison.

In August 2024, the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) arrested 66-year-old James Bachmurski in connection with the death of Jade Colvin. Investigators allege she was brought to Bachmurski’s home near Decorah in March 2017, with the last known text messages sent by the 15-year-old and received by anyone on March 30, 2017. She has not been spoken with or seen by any family or friends since.

In early September, a Winneshiek County Jury found Bachmurski guilty of second-degree murder, a Class B felony. On Tuesday (10.21), after his motion for a new trial was denied, Judge Laura Parrish sentenced Bachmurski to serve up to 50 years in prison. 

He must serve at least 35 years before he can become eligible for parole. By that time, Bachmurski would be 101. He plans to appeal.

In their victim impact statement Tuesday, family members pleaded with Bachmurski to reveal where Colvin’s body is located.