News

Guilty Verdict in 1980 Killing that Baffled Authorities

Guilty Verdict in 1980 Killing that Baffled Authorities

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio


BANGOR, Maine (AP)   A judge says a 57-year-old Maine man is guilty of murder in a nearly 40-year-old killing case that baffled authorities in Maine.

Philip Scott Fournier was charged in 2016 with killing 16-year-old Joyce McLain in East Millinocket in 1980. Superior Court Justice Ann Murray issued her verdict on Thursday morning in a packed Bangor courtroom.

McLain disappeared while she was jogging and her body was found two days later.

A defense lawyer said during final arguments earlier this month that “doubts will linger” over the case regardless of whether Fournier was convicted. The defense also argued that Fournier’s memories, which were central to the prosecution’s case, were unreliable.

There also wasn’t physical evidence tying Fournier to the crime scene. But prosecutors said he confessed numerous times over the years.

Latest Headlines

1 hour ago in Local

Missing South Portland man found safe

Fresh

Police say Kulinski has been found safe.

19 hours ago in Local

Maine Lawmakers Pass Bill to Let Jails Turn Away Some ICE Detainees

Governor Mills has indicated she will sign the bill.

21 hours ago in Local

Two Arrested in Gardiner for Drug Dealing, Gun Charges

Officers say they saw what looked like illegal drugs at the residence.

24 hours ago in Local

New Hampshire Man Dead in I-95 Crash in Newport

Maine State Police say they were on their way to assist a stopped car in the travel lane of I-95.

1 day ago in Local

Casco Bay Lines considers another fare hike for passengers

Riding the ferry in Casco Bay could get more expensive as the ferry line considers a 21 percent increase for passenger fares.