Change in Judge Coming in Zumbahlen Case

The trial of an Effingham man on child sex crimes may be delayed after the judge overseeing the case has asked to be replaced.

50-year-old James D. Zumbahlen faces more than 20 counts of various sex offenses spanning a 20-year period.

Judge Kimberly Koester indicated Monday that she has recused herself from the case since she has knowledge of the defendant.  Judge Koester has notified the Chief Judge's Office of her decision.  It'll be up to Chief Judge Gene Schwarm to appoint a judge to hear the case.

Zumbahlen's trial was to begin June 3.