A jury has found Maxwell Anderson guilty of the murder and dismemberment of Sade Robinson after a closely watched trial. The verdict was reached on Friday, and sentencing is scheduled for August 15.
The trial was marked by intense courtroom activity, particularly on Thursday afternoon, when the state rested its case, and jury instructions were given. Lead Prosecutor Ian Vance-Curzan argued that Anderson was the sole individual responsible for Robinson’s death, portraying him as someone who attempted to mislead investigators and destroy evidence, including the burning of Robinson’s car.
Defense Attorney Anthony Cotton countered by suggesting that Anderson’s behavior post-incident was normal and did not indicate guilt. He pointed out that Anderson returned to work the following day and did not display any unusual behavior.
Anderson faced multiple charges, including first-degree intentional homicide, mutilating a corpse, and arson. Prosecutors stated that he killed Robinson after a date on April 1, 2024, dismembered her body, and disposed of the remains across Milwaukee County, with one arm ultimately discovered on an Illinois beach.
Court filings have indicated that Anderson planned the murder weeks in advance, as per a statement from a confidential informant. Evidence also suggested that he attempted to conceal the crime by sending misleading text messages.
This case not only underscores the serious ramifications of violent crime but also highlights the efforts of law enforcement and the judicial system to seek justice for victims and their families. The trial’s transparency and the detailed presentation of the evidence could serve as a critical reminder of the importance of due process in such severe cases.