I want to thank the criminal division of the Maine Attorney General’s Office for a strong prosecution in the recent trial of Jessica Trefethen, who was found guilty of depraved indifference murder of her 3-year-old son, Maddox Williams. I attended the trial and watched Assistant Attorneys General Leane Zainea and John Risler conduct a thorough and meticulous prosecution, presenting expert witnesses along with conclusive evidence to the jury.

Their extensive research, organization of details and a keen awareness of court protocol were evident. As a state senator, I think it’s good to know that Maine people can rely on these dedicated professionals. Their expertise and thoroughness were evident when the jury deliberated for less than one hour before deciding on a unanimous guilty verdict. Maine is fortunate to have such a highly professional criminal division, led by division Chief Lisa Marchese.

A striking revelation among the evidence were photos of the nearly uninhabitable living conditions inside Trefethen’s home, where the Maine Department of Health and Human Services placed Maddox. It’s my sincerest hope that the tragic, gruesome details of this case revealed in the trial will result in meaningful changes at DHHS, so no other child dies.

Bill Diamond
Democratic state senator
Windham

filed under: