Isaak trial: Agent says knife found in washer with wet clothes

The quadruple murder trial of 47-year-old Chad Isaak entered its ninth day today (Thu) in Mandan.

Isaak is accused of killing the co-owner and three employees of a Mandan property management firm in April 2019.

State BCI agent Matthew Hyatt testified that a search of Isaak’s Washburn residence revealed a long knife with a bent tip…found in a washing machine with wet clothes.

Hyatt also said a bottle of bleach was found in a shower stall… and a wristwatch in a nearby sink had a strong odor of bleach.

In addition, Hyatt found several hand-written post-it notes in the residence, one of which said, “This is the time of the year when you do stupid things.”

Defense attorney Bruce Quick pointed out that the note was found next to a Bible… and at least one other note contained a religious reference.

Earlier, McClean County Sheriff’s Lt. Justin Krohmer testified about taking photos of Isaak’s pickup.  Krohmer said rust spots and dirt marks on the F-150 were similar to the suspect vehicle caught on surveillance.  In addition the make and model matched up.

He also told jurors that Isaak had a “distinct” walk – which matched a suspect spotted on video.

When Isaak was detained during a traffic stop Krohmer said Isaak seemed to have a “smirk” on his face while being handcuffed and placed on the ground.

Defense attorneys questioned why the “smirk” remark wasn’t included in the arrest report.  They also asked whether their client resisted arrest.  Krohmer replied he did not.

Isaak faces life in prison without parole.