Donald Dalberg, 48, of Grand Marsh, Wisconsin, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole on May 23, 2025, following his conviction for the brutal 2024 homicide of Floyd Burdick. The sentencing concluded a tragic case that shocked the local community and drew significant attention for the nature of the crimes involved.
Dalberg was found guilty on April 15, 2025, of 15 felony counts including first-degree intentional homicide, mutilating a corpse, and arson, according to official court records and local news reports. These charges stemmed from the discovery of Burdick’s burned body in January 2024, which was found along County Highway M in Juneau County, covered in snow but severely damaged by fire.
Details of the Crime
The incident came to light on January 18, 2024, when authorities discovered the body of Floyd Burdick, who had been both murdered and subjected to attempts to conceal the crime through burning. The body was found charred and mutilated, indicating a deliberate effort to destroy evidence. Investigators traced the crime back to Dalberg, who was subsequently charged with causing Burdick’s death and trying to destroy the corpse through fire.
The extent of the crime shocked residents in Juneau County, a generally quiet rural area. “This was a deeply disturbing crime that required swift and decisive action by law enforcement and the judicial system,” said Judge Paul Curran during the sentencing hearing. He emphasized the severity of the crimes and the impact on the community, explaining the need for a life sentence without parole to ensure justice and public safety.
Related Arrest and Charges
In connection with the case, Crystal Teumer, 27, was also arrested and charged for her involvement. She pleaded no contest to harboring or aiding a felon and was sentenced to time served — 472 days in jail — along with a monetary fine. Charges related to mutilating a corpse and arson against her were dismissed but read in, meaning they were considered in sentencing but not prosecuted separately.
The Legal Proceedings and Sentence
Dalberg faced 15 felony charges, all of which were proven beyond a reasonable doubt by the prosecution. The jury’s guilty verdict led to Judge Curran imposing the harshest sentence available: life imprisonment without the possibility of extended supervision, effectively a life sentence without parole.
This sentencing underscores Wisconsin’s firm stance on violent crimes, especially those involving homicide and attempts to destroy evidence through mutilation and arson.
Community and Law Enforcement Response
Local law enforcement praised the investigative efforts that brought Dalberg to justice. Authorities credited careful forensic work and persistent investigation for solving the case months after the crime occurred. The Juneau County Sheriff’s Office released a statement recognizing the impact on the victim’s family and the community, affirming their commitment to justice.
Resources and Further Information
If you or someone you know is affected by violence, resources and support are available through government programs. The Wisconsin Department of Justice provides victim assistance programs, while the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime offers national resources and support.
About Juneau County
Juneau County is located in the central part of Wisconsin and is known for its rural landscapes and close-knit communities. Incidents such as this homicide are rare and deeply felt throughout the area.
