Arline Lawless pleaded not guilty to a charge of intentional or knowing murder during an appearance in the Lincoln County Superior Court Oct 27.
Lawless, 25, is accused of fatally shooting Norman Benner, 34, at a residence they shared on Friendship Road in Waldoboro July 21.
Lawless pled “not criminally responsible by reason of insanity” to the charge.
A group of people in the courtroom, presumably family members and friends of the late Norman P. “Norm” Benner Jr., were wearing t-shirts featuring the words “in loving memory of Norman Benner Jr.” and a photograph of Benner.
Representing the state, Assistant Attorney General Deborah Cashman requested 90 days for discovery and 60 days to file motions. Cashman told the court she does not expect the matter to be ready for trial until September 2013.
Lawless’ attorney, Philip Cohen, of Waldoboro, stated the plea and did not request a bail hearing. Lawless will remain held without bail.
In other action, Lawless (nee Seavey) pled guilty to a disorderly conduct charge and was sentenced to five days confinement, based on the mutual recommendation of the state and her attorney.
Lawless was arrested Aug. 15 as she was being discharged from the Spring Harbor treatment center in Westbrook. According to its website, Spring Harbor is a provider of inpatient services for individuals who experience acute mental illness or dual disorders issues.
According to an affidavit, filed by Maine State Police Det. Abbe Chabot in support of the Aug. 7 arrest warrant, Lawless allegedly told Maine State Police detectives she shot Norman Benner in his sleep after he told her he planned to leave her.
According to the affidavit, Benner’s body was discovered in his bed by his sister, Kimberly Benner July 23, and reported in a 911 call to Lincoln County Communications Center.
Responding to the report, Waldoboro Police Officer Jeffrey Fuller found Benner deceased and Lawless “incoherent and injured next to him,” according to the affidavit.
Lawless was subsequently transported to Miles Memorial Hospital in Damariscotta for treatment of a gunshot wound to the face.
Lawless’ next scheduled court appearance is Dec. 27.