ROCKLAND — Singer-songwriter Don McLean of “American Pie” fame paid a $3,660 fine Thursday to end a 2016 domestic violence case involving his former wife at their home in Camden.
McLean was convicted of domestic violence criminal threatening, criminal restraint, and criminal mischief against his former wife, Patrisha McLean, in Knox County Court on July 20, 2016. Charges of domestic violence assault, domestic violence terrorizing, and obstructing report of a crime were dismissed Thursday as part of the plea agreement reached a year ago.
Don McLean, 71, pleaded guilty to all six charges in July 2016 through a deferred disposition. Under terms of the agreement, he would serve no jail time but pay the fines if he committed no additional crimes over the next 12 months. The agreement also called for dismissal of the three charges dropped on Thursday if he met the terms.
He also was required to be evaluated for possible domestic violence and anger management counseling.
McLean met those conditions and paid the fine Thursday.
“Today the Knox County Court dismissed the domestic violence assault charge against singer-songwriter Don McLean,” McLean’s attorney, Walter McKee of Augusta, said in a statement Thursday night. “This charge was the heart of the charges brought against the singer last year. In short, Mr. McLean, contrary to media reports, did not assault – and all that implies – anyone at any time.”
McLean has no prior criminal record.
Patrisha McLean told police that in their home on the evening of Jan. 18, 2016, McLean held her head with his hands like a vise. She said he held her captive on the bed for hours while he squeezed and punched her arms and legs. She said McLean also told her that he wanted to strangle her before she managed to get away and was able to call 911.
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