Morgan Womack – Page 12 – Lewiston Sun Journal

Staff Writer

Morgan covers breaking news and public safety for the Portland Press Herald. Before moving to Maine in 2024, she reported for Michigan State University's student-run publication, as well as the Indianapolis Star and Michigan Public. She's passionate about telling human-centered stories and battling for access to public records. As someone who grew up on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, Morgan feels at home in Maine's natural scenery.

Judge denies Dennis Dechaine’s latest appeal for a new trial

by Morgan Womack January 31, 2025February 1, 2025

Dechaine was denied a request for a new trial based on new DNA evidence after spending 36 years in prison for the murder of 12-year-old Sarah Cherry.

Local & State, Maine Crime, News

Maine police shooting review panel says agencies need to call for backup more often

by Morgan Womack January 29, 2025January 29, 2025

The 11-member deadly force review panel examined 8 police shootings in 2024 and is recommending agencies work on preventing harm.

Local & State, Maine Crime, News, Politics

Bill would allow some Maine teens facing adult charges to stay in youth detention

by Morgan Womack January 27, 2025January 27, 2025

The legislation would allow the Department of Corrections to keep certain residents who are over 18 at Long Creek Youth Development Center so they could continue to receive behavioral health services.

Local & State, Maine Crime, News, Schools & Education

Gray man accused of threatening to bring gun to Gorham day care

by Morgan Womack January 22, 2025January 23, 2025

Local schools were put on lockdown and residents sheltered in place as the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office negotiated with the man to surrender.

Local & State, Maine Crime, Nation / World, News, Politics

Trump pardons, dismisses cases of all 15 Mainers accused in Jan. 6 riot

by Morgan Womack January 21, 2025January 22, 2025

Most had already been sentenced and served their terms, but some were still awaiting trial or sentencing when the president issued the order Monday.

Local & State, Maine Crime, News

Maine recorded 35 homicides last year, continuing upward trend

by Morgan Womack January 21, 2025January 20, 2025

The state’s longest period without a murder was 39 days.

Local & State, Maine Crime

Maine AG says Hiram man pointed BB gun at trooper before his death

by Morgan Womack January 17, 2025January 17, 2025

The AG said the trooper fired once at the man, whose gun appeared to be a real pistol.

Local & State, Maine Crime, News

Maine State Police overtime sets a new record at more than $10M

by Morgan Womack January 17, 2025January 17, 2025

An agency leader said some of the top earners could be trying to earn a higher pension, which is generally calculated by taking the average of their highest 3 years of pay.