Man, who caught his girlfriend “in the act” with her female best friend as he walked out of the shower and stabbed them to death with an 8-inch blade, now faces further legal challenges

Wisconsin – The Wisconsin man who stabbed his girlfriend and her female best friend to death with an 8-inch blade and was ordered to serve two life sentences for the horrific murders now faces further legal challenges. The 50-year-old man, identified as R. Sotka, who is currently in prison for the crimes, is now facing trial for allegedly assaulting a correctional officer. The trial is set for January 8, 2025, after delays and complications in preparing his defense. Sotka’s history of violence continues to haunt him, as this latest charge adds to his already grave criminal record.

Sotka was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole after a chilling incident where he killed his 58-year-old girlfriend, identified as R. Cegelski, and her 53-year-old friend, P. O’Connor. The murders, which occurred on May 17, 2021, were reportedly spurred by jealousy and humiliation when Sotka caught the two women “in the act” as he walked out of the shower following a night of heavy drinking, leading him to “snap in a jealous rage.”

The crime scene, described vividly in court records and by law enforcement, showcased a gruesome act of violence, with both victims stabbed multiple times. The details emerged during the trial, including that O’Connor was found near the front door with a knife still in her neck, while Cegelski was discovered in the kitchen.

On January 8, 2025, Sotka is scheduled to face trial for a new charge of battery by a prisoner, stemming from an incident where he is accused of attacking a correctional officer with multiple punches to the head. This assault is said to have occurred while he was already incarcerated, further complicating his legal problems.

According to the criminal complaint, the correctional officer reported that Sotka hit him on the left ear with a closed fist, causing disorientation and pain. The assault continued with Sotka delivering several more strikes, primarily aimed at the officer’s head, until backup arrived and the situation was deescalated.

Initially set for October 16, 2024, the battery trial was delayed to December and then pushed to January 2025. The delay was granted after Sotka’s attorney, J. Cano, indicated that logistical challenges had prevented adequate preparation for the defense, including difficulties in meeting with Sotka and reviewing case materials.

This upcoming trial could potentially add more years to Sotka’s already substantial prison time. Judge B. Liegeois, in agreeing to the delay, highlighted the complexities involved in managing a case involving an already convicted murderer now accused of violence within prison walls.

Sotka’s violent tendencies are not limited to the 2021 murders. He has a documented history of aggression and had been involved in another serious case in Ohio, where he faced charges of stalking, harassment, and violating a restraining order. His criminal activities in that case also involved removing his GPS ankle monitor and attempting to flee the jurisdiction, demonstrating a pattern of disregard for the law and violent behavior.

This history came into sharper focus during his murder trial, where it was revealed that he had previously assaulted another woman he was dating, causing severe physical injuries. This incident from 20 years ago was brought up by prosecutors to establish a consistent pattern of Sotka’s dangerous behavior towards women.

As Sotka prepares for his upcoming trial, the legal system must navigate the delicate balance of ensuring justice for the correctional officer allegedly assaulted while managing an inmate already serving time for heinous crimes.