Nebraska – A Gage County jury has found Christopher Milke guilty of multiple felony charges connected to the death of a Beatrice woman, bringing a closely watched case to a decisive conclusion after a trial that spanned more than a week.
Milke was convicted of 1st Degree Murder in the death of Tammy Leslie of Beatrice, Nebraska. The jury trial began on February 2, 2026, and concluded on February 12, 2026, in the District Court of Gage County.
Multiple felony convictions returned
In addition to the murder conviction, jurors found Milke guilty of four additional felony charges. These include use of a firearm to commit a felony, kidnapping, 1st-degree false imprisonment, and tampering with physical evidence. The verdict means Milke now faces significant penalties when he returns to court for sentencing.
Judge Rick Schreiner is scheduled to sentence Milke on March 19, 2026.
Authorities said the case involved coordination among several law enforcement agencies and prosecutors. The Nebraska Attorney General’s Office, the Gage County Attorney’s Office, the Beatrice Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol all assisted in the investigation, arrest, and prosecution.
While detailed evidence presented during the trial was not outlined in the announcement, the convictions reflect the jury’s determination that Milke was responsible for Leslie’s death and related criminal acts.
The case has drawn attention in the Beatrice community, where residents followed developments as the trial unfolded. With the verdict now delivered, attention turns to the upcoming sentencing hearing, where the court will determine the penalties Milke will face.
The coordinated effort among state and local agencies underscores the seriousness of the charges and the commitment to securing justice in violent crime cases.
