Murder Trial to Begin for James Diawo Kollie
A bench trial for James Diawo Kollie is set to commence in Moorhead on September 28, 2026.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Crime — General
James Diawo Kollie faces trial for the 2022 death of his mother, Receia Kollie. The proceedings are scheduled to begin on September 28, 2026, in Moorhead.
Why it matters
The case follows a domestic disturbance incident that preceded the discovery of Receia Kollie's body, highlighting the legal complexities of domestic violence cases that escalate to homicide.
James Diawo Kollie, 29, is charged with first-degree premeditated murder and second-degree murder, the latter of which carries a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison.
The players
James Diawo Kollie
He is the 29-year-old defendant currently facing charges of first-degree premeditated murder and second-degree murder.
Receia Kollie
She was a 59-year-old victim who died in December 2022 after police discovered her body at her home.
Tammy Merkins
She is the judge appointed to preside over the bench trial and render a verdict in the case.
Leah duCharme
She is the judge who previously oversaw initial proceedings and ordered the defendant's release without bond under specific conditions.
The details
Receia Kollie, 59, was found by police on December 1, 2022, with multiple sharp force trauma wounds. Judge Tammy Merkins will preside over the bench trial after the defendant waived his right to a jury trial.
Timeline
November 27, 2022: Police responded to a domestic disturbance at the home of Receia Kollie.
December 1, 2022: The body of Receia Kollie was discovered by police.
December 2, 2022: James Diawo Kollie was arrested in Wahpeton, North Dakota.
September 2023: A judge ruled the defendant was incompetent to stand trial.
September 28, 2026: The murder trial is scheduled to begin.
Legal Context
This trial follows the 2023 competency ruling in the State v. James Diawo Kollie case, which previously halted legal proceedings. The move to a bench trial represents a significant departure from standard jury-led homicide trials in the jurisdiction.
Residents should anticipate that the two-week trial period may lead to increased activity and security presence around the courthouse in Moorhead. Local court operations may experience minor scheduling adjustments as the prosecution presents its 370 exhibits.
The takeaway
The transition to a bench trial underscores the specialized nature of judicial oversight in cases involving prior competency evaluations. Observers of the local justice system should note that bench trials can often proceed more efficiently than those involving a jury of peers.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings in the area, visit the Crime — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by INFORUM.
