Margaret and Jacob Kempainen Case will Move to Trial in Houghton County’s 12th Circuit Court

Margaret and Jacob Kempainen’s case will move to trial following a preliminary exam in the 12^th circuit court. Margaret Kempainen 63 years old, and Jacob Kempainen 20 years old of Hurley, Wisconsin are each accused of the murder of Alvin Kemapinen of Hancock Township in December 2023. The Houghton County prosecutor presented plea deals to both parties. However, both were refused.

During the preliminary exam County Prosecutor Dan Helmer presented witnesses to show Margaret and Jacob’s probable cause and the necessity of a trial. After witness examination Judge Nicholas Daavettila found the prosecution showed the accused had probable cause and will stand trial. Each faces a charge of homicide, open murder, and conspiracy to commit murder. Both are housed in the Houghton County Jail without bond.