LACROSSE, Wis. – Bail was set at $$1 million for a rural woman charged with drugging, abusing and killing her 6-year-old son. The boy, AJ Pedrin, was found in bed by first-responders with rigor mortis setting in on a Saturday morning in February. The bail was set by Josie Dikeman by Judge Ramona Gonzalez after the prosecutor described her as a threat to the community with potential for intimidating witnesses who include family members. The prosecutor also noted Dikeman’s record of child abuse. The charges against Dikeman, age 31, in the 16-page criminal complaint:
> Intentional homicide.
> Chronic child neglect.
> Physical child abuse.
The bail hearing was the first court appearance for Dikeman. The courtroom was packed. These included the father of AJ Pedrin and family members, including children..
Dikeman. Death was un February at a house in Medary township.