BEATRICE – A man from southeast Nebraska will remain in custody without the option of bond following the fatal shooting of a 42-year-old woman in Beatrice.
Christopher Milke, who has been detained since his arrest on Sunday, appeared in Gage County Court on Wednesday. He faces preliminary allegations of first-degree murder, two kidnapping counts, and using a firearm to commit a felony, though formal charges have not yet been made.
Deputy Gage County Attorney Braden Dvorak emphasized the significant danger Milke poses to the public and witnesses, citing the alleged murder of his long-term partner, 42-year-old Tammy Leslie, in the presence of their children at home. Leslie was found shot to death, and a handgun was recovered by the police.
Prior to Milke’s arrest on Sunday morning, Beatrice Police assisted a 19-year-old and a 12-year-old in escaping the home.
Milke’s attorney, Tim Noerrlinger of the Nebraska Commission on Public Advocacy, requested a set bond amount, noting Milke’s local ties including home ownership at the incident location, and family in Stella, Nebraska.
However, Gage County Judge Jeff Gaertig decided Milke will be held without bond, with the possibility of bond review after 24 hours. Milke’s arraignment is scheduled for September 27 at 11 a.m.
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