Woden man sentenced to 50 years in prison for murdering his wife

GARNER — A Woden man convicted of second-degree murder in the death of his wife last year was given the mandatory sentence of 50 years in prison during a hearing on Tuesday in Hancock County District Court.

57-year-old Roger Crews Junior was accused of murdering his wife Karen on October 27th of last year. Authorities found Karen Crews dead after responding to a call for a welfare check at their home on the morning of October 28th. A criminal complaint stated Roger Crews was the one who made that call to authorities. Crews was arrested later that night in Freeborn County Minnesota and charged with first-degree murder.

A victim impact statement from Karen Crews’ sister Hope Lageson was read into the record by a victim services worker.  “My sister Karen was more than just a family member to us—she was the heart of our family. As a loving mother to her four children and grandmother to two precious grandchildren, she gave everything she had to ensure her family was supported, loved, and cared for. She worked tirelessly, selflessly, and without complaint, often putting others’ needs before her own. Her laughter, warmth, and unconditional love were the glue that held us all together.”

Lageson’s statement also talked about the impact Karen Crews’ death will have on their family in the future.   “We will never get back the years we should have had with her. Her children will never have their mother’s guidance in the future. Her grandchildren will grow up with an empty space where she should have been. And for my brother and me, we have lost a sister whose love, strength, and joy we will never experience again.”

District Judge Gregg Rosenbladt in sentencing Crews stated that presiding over the case that it was a very serious manner and that he deserved the long sentence.  “A very sad manner in many respects, and I believe that the victim impact statement was well done and well presented. It simply indicated to the court that he was aware of the seriousness and gravity of the situation, and a sad case in many respects.”

Crews was given a chance to make a statement prior to sentencing but declined. He  received the mandatory 50 years, with the requirement that he serve 35 years of the sentence prior to being considered for parole. He was also ordered to pay $150,000 restitution to the estate of Karen Crews.