Corn maze operator faces three criminal charges

Former Tranquility Corn Maze operator James Bachmurski of rural Decorah has returned to court--but this time it's on criminal charges.

Bachmurski was sued by Cambridge, Iowa businessman Ralph Cory in late 2010, contending Bachmurski owed Cory $5,000 for a September 11th, 2010 event at the corn maze that included fireworks, a band and a pork dinner that Cory provided.

District Judge Margaret Lingreen overturned the ruling in a magistrate's court case and ruled in favor of Cory in April of 2011, ordering Bachmurski to pay pay Cory $2,676.78 as well as $275 in court costs.

Two charges have now been filed against Bachmurski in Winneshiek County court in connection with incidents involving his two sons.

Bachmurski faces a Class D felony charge of child harassment for allegedly kicking one of his sons on the son's leg.  Bachmurski also faces a charge of first degree harassment for allegedly pointing a hunting rifle at one of his sons and threatening the son. 

A third charge has been filed, but will not be opened to the public for a few more days.

The trial on the felony charge of child harassment is scheduled to begin April 18th in Decorah.