Alleged Downwind Accomplice Pleads Not Guilty

A Bemidji man accused of helping burn a Red Lake woman’s body pleaded not guilty to aiding an offender Tuesday.

Brandon Rossbach, 31, was charged with one count of aiding an offender in connection to the murder of Rose Downwind. Her former boyfriend, Marcello Cimmarusti, pleaded guilty in April.

Rossbach’s attorney, Kassius Benson, requested a change of venue to Hennepin County or Ramsey County last Friday, due to extensive media coverage of the case.

Attorneys prosecuting Rossbach, including Beltrami County Attorney Annie Claesson-Huseby opposed the change of venue. Hearing Judge Paul Benshoof has not yet ruled on the motion.

Rossbach will appear in court for a pre-trial hearing Sept. 27., and a jury trial on Oct. 17. If convicted, Rossbach faces up to 20 years in prison.

Alleged accomplice Christopher John Davis, was also charged with aiding an offender. Davis’ next court date is Friday and Cimmarusti will be sentenced Oct. 28.