ENOLA, Pa. — A Cumberland County man will serve up to 50 years in prison for murdering his wife on Christmas Eve last year.
Christopher Colbert had previously pleaded guilty to third-degree homicide, aggravated assault, tampering with evidence, and recklessly endangering another person for the December 24, 2022 murder of his wife, Tamara Colbert in their Enola home, according to Cumberland County District Attorney Sean McCormack.
As part of a negotiated plea deal, Christopher Colbert was sentenced to a prison term of 22-50 years at a hearing on December 15, McCormack said.
According to McCormack, Hampden Township Police Department received calls from Colbert’s family on the day of the murder because he was not responding to phone calls after advising them that his wife Tamara was dead.
Before police arrived at his home, Colbert removed his bloody clothing and attempted to clean the crime scene, McCormack said.
During the course of the investigation, lead investigator Detective Coleen Redifer learned that Colbert had been having several extramarital affairs, had an alcohol addiction, and was being reprimanded at work.
Shortly before her death, Tamara Colbert learned of the infidelity and had told a close friend that she was going to discuss it with her husband.
When police arrived on scene they found Tamara Colbert dead in the home. Christopher Colbert was in the garage.
"Tamara Colbert worked tirelessly with international students at the University of Miami and was an integral part of their admissions team," McCormack said. "(She) is remembered for her positive attitude and humor. She was a beloved colleague and travel partner.
"Tamara loved cooking, traveling, sparking wine, and the color pink. The University of Miami has created a scholarship in her honor."
This case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Robinson.
McCormack thanked Victim Advocate Shelly Farmery, who assisted Tamara Colbert's family and friends through this process, and the Hampden Township Police Department.
"If you or a loved one are experiencing domestic violence, please contact 800-799-7233 24/7 for help," McCormack said.
