News

Defense lawyer alleges “systemic failure” at Maine crime lab

Defense lawyer alleges “systemic failure” at Maine crime lab

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) A criminal defense lawyer claims that officials have withheld information that could reveal “systemic failures” at the state police forensic lab and has filed a lawsuit against Maine for the release of those documents.

The Bangor Daily News reports that Lyman-based lawyer Amy Fairfield said Tuesday in a filing that the public deserves transparency in how the criminal justice system operates.

Fairfield submitted a Maine Freedom of Access Act request last year for information about the resignation of a crime lab employee in 2012 after he allegedly lied to superiors.

Prosecutors have disclosed to several defendants that evidence the employee was involved with may have credibility issues.

Latest Headlines

4 hours ago in Local

Maine Ballot Questions Reflect National Political Issues

Two ballot measures represent the latest efforts to put two hot-button national issues directly before voters in Maine.

10 hours ago in Local

Maine Agency Issues Recall of Cannabis Vape Cartridges

The recall is for Yani adult use vape cartridges called "Watermelon Chimera."

13 hours ago in Local

Cat Dies in Campground Fire in Farmington

Crews were sent to the fire at 283 Red Schoolhouse Road in Farmington

13 hours ago in Local

Lewiston Police Ask for Return of Items Mistakenly Taken from Closed Store

Officers say they were sent to a report Saturday of people removing items from Goshen Super Market.

14 hours ago in Local

Waterville police respond to 2 unrelated shootings within 24 hours

Waterville police say two shootings reported within 24 hours are not related.