AUGUSTA — The triple murder and suicide in Dexter has prompted a Maine legislator to propose a bill that will address bail conditions in domestic violence cases.

Rep. Ken Fredette says he plans to file legislation next year to amend Maine’s Bail Code to require judges to consider instances of domestic violence when setting bail.

Police call Monday’s killings in Dexter a case of domestic violence homicide. Domestic violence charges were pending against the perpetrator in that case.

Fredette, a Republican from Newport, said the laws need to be changed to protect those who are at risk of violence. Fredette wants to submit the bill during the session of the Legislature that begins next January.

In 2010, Maine recorded 5,117 domestic violence assault cases.

 


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