Bio

Stephen L. Trattner was born in 1962. He grew up in a suburban area, where he was seen as a quiet and composed individual. Trattner was known in his community for being helpful and polite. As he became an adult, he worked in various jobs, including as a software programmer. However, about ten years before his crimes, he decided to change his career path. He left his job to pursue work as a golf course developer, which brought in a less stable income.

Trattner married Sin Lam, who was originally from Hong Kong, and together they had two children. Sin worked at a pharmaceutical company and was the primary breadwinner for the family after Trattner's career change. Over the years, their marriage faced many struggles. Friends and family reported that Trattner was controlling and sometimes emotionally abusive. Sin had expressed feelings of inadequacy, and she attempted to make the marriage work for the sake of their children.

As time went on, Sin’s desire to seek a divorce grew stronger. She had spoken to family and friends about her plans to leave Trattner. They were concerned about how he would react, as signs of his increasing control and emotional issues became apparent. In the year leading up to the tragic events, Trattner had also begun to drink heavily. This added strain to their already troubled relationship.

Murder Story

On January 4, 2006, Stephen L. Trattner killed his wife, Sin Lam, in their home in Mequon, Wisconsin. Trattner became enraged when Lam told him she wanted a divorce. During an argument, he threw her against kitchen cabinets, repeatedly punched her in the face, and then strangled her until she stopped moving. Afterward, he covered her body with a blanket and left her on the living room floor.

The next morning, Trattner woke up, prepared their two children for school, and told them not to disturb their mother. He then ran errands and had lunch with a friend. Later that day, around 1 p.m., he called the police. He admitted to authorities that he was unsure if he killed her but had a good idea that she was dead.

Trattner was charged with first-degree reckless homicide. He surrendered to the police the day after the murder. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that he did not immediately call for help due to fear of going to jail. He was found guilty and sentenced to 35 years in prison on September 5, 2006.