Woman Convicted of Killing Adopted Son 22 Years Ago

ST. PAUL, Minn. —  A woman on trial for the death 22 years ago of her 3-year-old adopted son was convicted Friday of third-degree murder.

Lois Jurgens was found guilty of unintentionally killing Dennis Jurgens in an aggravated assault.

Authorities reopened the case last year at the urging of Jerry Sherwood, the child’s biological mother, who became suspicious when she tried to locate Dennis a few years ago. The cause of his death had been listed as “deferred” in 1965, but the Ramsey County medical examiner reclassified it as a homicide last year.

Judge David Marsden said Jurgens, 61, would remain free on bail. He has the discretion to sentence her under 1965 law, which calls for a maximum prison term of 25 years, or under the 1987 state sentencing guidelines, which suggest a sentence of 105 months.

In closing arguments, defense attorney Douglas Thomson told the jury in a raised voice: “There is not one shred of evidence in this case that proves Lois Jurgens caused the death.” Thomson said Jurgens abused Dennis, but did not kill him.

“Dennis Jurgens suffered more psychological and physical torture and pain than many adults have in an entire life,” said Assistant Ramsey County Atty. Clayton Robinson Jr.