News

Murder trial in northern Maine to set to start

6 years ago in Local

Photo: 560 WGAN Newsradio

HOULTON, Maine (AP) The trial is due to start for a Maine man charged with killing his 79-year-old stepfather in Bridgewater.

Opening statements on Thursday in the trial of James Peaslee, of Easton, follow the selection of a jury the day before.

Police arrested Peaslee just hours after they responded to a 911 call and found Paul Hilenski’s body in his Bridgewater home in January 2018. Peaslee has been held without bail ever since.

Police have released little information but the indictment indicates a gun was used to kill Hilenski.

Records indicate Peaslee has been convicted of multiple crimes including criminal threatening terrorizing, assault and drug trafficking.

Latest Headlines

23 minutes ago in Local

Trump Shuts Down Offshore Wind in New England; Nova Scotia Eyes Opportunity

Fresh

The administration’s freeze on U.S. ocean wind projects could set clean energy back a decade. Nova Scotia’s massive Wind West project hopes to fill the gap and even sell power to the U.S.

26 minutes ago in Local

Federal Policy Could Push Hundreds of Mainers Out of Long-Term Housing

Fresh

HUD plans to cut funding for permanent supportive housing and shift to transitional programs, leaving vulnerable Mainers at risk of homelessness. Advocates warn shelters could be overwhelmed.

51 minutes ago in Local

Maine Announces $550K in Grants to Boost Coastal Resilience

Fresh

The state just announced $550,000 in grants to help communities prepare for future storms and flooding. Towns and regional groups can apply for funding to strengthen infrastructure and plan for climate risks. Applications are due Jan. 5.

1 hour ago in Local

Portland Unveils Maine’s First Electric Boat Charger

Fresh

Portland just unveiled the state’s first electric boat charger at Wright’s Wharf. The move is part of a push to cut emissions and noise in the marine industry.

1 hour ago in Local

Overdose Deaths Continue to Decline in Maine for Third Year

Fresh

Overdose deaths have dropped for the third year in a row! Fatal overdoses are down 23% compared to last year, and officials credit naloxone distribution and expanded treatment options. If the trend continues, Maine could see the fewest overdose deaths in six years.