Closing statements expected Wednesday in Walstrom trial

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Attorneys are expected to give closing statements in the jury trial of former Minnesota Correctional Facility-Red Wing guard Suzanne Marie Walstrom this morning (Wednesday).

Walstrom, 39, Plum City, is accused of having sexual relationships, including fondling, with three juvenile inmate boys while she was working as a guard at the prison. Charges were originally filed in April and August 2010. She faces two counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct and one count of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct.

After a full week of juror selection, a jury of seven men and seven women heard opening statements from Assistant Goodhue County Attorney Erin Kuester and defense attorney Ryan Pacyga April 16.

With Judge Thomas Bibus presiding, Kuester argued that Walstrom received several reprimands for behavior infractions and having “inappropriate boundaries” with inmates while she was employed at the prison.

Pacyga countered that the accusers, who are serious criminals, knew how to work the system and purposefully targeted Walstrom.

Goodhue County Court Administrator Yvonne Black said as of Tuesday afternoon, there have been 20 witnesses to take the stand. The 21st and final witness was giving testimony Tuesday afternoon. Kuester indicated in opening statements that she would call Walstrom’s three alleged accusers, employees of MCF-RW and police investigators.

Black said she was surprised that testimony is to finish so early, adding that she had expected it to last through this week.

Sarah Gorvin is a reporter for the Red Wing Republican Eagle.

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