Spirit Lake, Iowa — Opening arguments were held and testimony got underway Tuesday in the bench trial of Allison Decker, charged in the December 21st 2020 death of Angel Bastman at a residence in Lake Park. Decker is being tried on charges of 1st degree murder, theft in the 2nd degree and conspiracy to commit theft in the 2nd degree.
In opening remarks, County Attorney Amy Zenor recounted the incidents leading up to Bastman’s death, including how her father found Angel dead in the basement with a belt around her neck, also noting her three-year-old daughter was also in the house at the time.
Zenor’s opening remarks also made reference to Bastman, Decker and Justice Berntson, who was also charged in Bastman’s death, and were present in the basement using methamphetamine when an argument broke out.
The opening remarks also make reference to another person being called to the scene after Bastman’s death, Joshua Montano, and property that was then removed from the residence and taken to Sioux City.
Several witnesses also provided testimony Tuesday, however a court order is currently in place prohibiting media outlets from reporting on much of that testimony. Additional testimony resumed Wednesday, with court reconvening at 9:00 am.
Story courtesy of our News Partner, KUOO Radio.
