Kenneth Freeman, man accused of killing Froedtert nurse, makes 1st court appearance; $500K bail set

MILWAUKEE -- As loved ones celebrated the life of 33-year-old nurse practitioner Carlie Beaudin, the man accused of killing her appeared in a Milwaukee County courtroom.

Kenneth Freeman, 27, walked into court Saturday, Feb. 2 showing little emotion on his face. It's the first time the 27-year-old appeared in court since being charged for the brutal murder of Beaudin.

Kenneth Freeman

"Mr. Freeman, I've read this criminal complaint sir and I do find that it contains probable cause," said the court commissioner.

Carlie Beaudin

Prosecutors say Freeman followed Beaudin in a Froedtert Hospital parking structure on the morning of Jan. 25. He allegedly kicked and stomped Beaudin roughly 40 times in the head and neck before ditching her body. Prosecutors say the attack was captured on security cameras.

"The state has strong circumstantial evidence, in addition to direct video evidence as it relates to this case," said the prosecutor.

Prosecutors say Freeman acknowledged being involved.

Homicide investigation at Froedtert Hospital parking structure

"He more or less admitted culpability to the offense," the prosecutor said.

Kenneth Freeman

FOX6 News has learned Freeman was released from police custody not long before Beaudin was attacked. The Milwaukee County District Attorney's Office says it was for a minor obstruction incident.

"He had no pending charges at the time of this offense. He has no prior misdemeanor or felony convictions and no prior violent convictions," said Freeman's defense attorney.

As Freeman sat in court, loved ones of Beaudin celebrated her life. A memorial mass was held at St. Luke's Catholic Church, attended by former patients, friends and family. Beaudin's loved ones have asked that donations be made to the Wisconsin Humane Society in her honor.

Freeman's next court appearance is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 8. His bail was set for $500,000.