Jesse Vang (Photo courtesy Manitowoc County Sheriff's Office)
MANITOWOC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Prosecutors will be allowed to have an FBI forensic geologist testify about the similarities of geologic materials found where Elijah Vue’s body was found to a mixture of sand and gravel used to treat sidewalks found in containers near the home of Jesse Vang, a judge ruled Friday.
Jesse Vang, is charged with physical abuse of a child – causing death and hiding a corpse in connection with the death of Vue, 3.
Katrina Baur, the boy’s mother, faces four charges in connection with the treatment, disappearance, and subsequent death of the boy.
A joint trial is scheduled to start April 14.
At a previous hearing, the FBI’s Jodi Webb testified about the two samples of materials. She noted the similarities of the substances, but said she couldn’t answer if the material found near the body came from the bucket along Mishicot Road. Assistant District Attorney Jill Vendetti argued the jury should be allowed to evaluate the evidence, but defense attorney Jeffrey Jensen said the information wouldn’t help the jury and shouldn’t be allowed.
Judge Anthony Lambrecht announced his decision Friday, saying after reviewing the five aspects the court has to consider, Webb’s testimony will be allowed.
“The court believes Miss Webb’s testimony is reliable based on the standards set forth in Daubert, and should be allowed under Sec. 907.02. Therefore, the court will respectfully deny Mr. Vang’s motion to exclude the testimony of Jodi Webb, and her testimony will be allowed in its entirety,” the judge said.
The U.S. Supreme Court has noted the preference is for allowing the evidence, with vigorous cross examination and presentation of contrary evidence, as opposed to exclusion, the judge said.
Prosecutors allege Baur sent her son to live with Vang at his Two Rivers apartment for “disciplinary reasons.” Vang reported Vue missing Feb. 20, 2024, and an Amber Alert was issued.
Months later, on Sept. 7, a man preparing his land for hunting season found human remains on private property near the entrance of Camp Manitou, a Girl Scout camp. Those remains were positively identified as Vue’s.
Comments