This week, the Lincoln County Grand Jury heard testimony regarding the June 2009 crash, which claimed the life of Harold Benner of Waldoboro. No indictments arising from the crash were returned by this session of the Grand Jury. Because Grand Jury matters are confidential, no other information is available.
According to a written statement, Geoffrey Rushlau, District Attorney for Lincoln, Knox, Waldo and Sagadahoc Counties emphasizes the matter is not closed.
Rushlau writes, “The investigation by the Waldoboro Police Dept., with assistance from the Maine State Police, was thorough and professional. For reasons beyond law enforcement control, it is not complete.
“Despite an on-going effort, investigators have been unable to identify the driver, and any occupants, of a white pick-up truck which was in the immediate area when the crash occurred.
“Anyone with information about this truck or its occupants should provide that immediately to the Waldoboro Police so that the investigation can again move forward. If the investigators obtain new evidence the matter will be reviewed again.
“A prosecution could be brought at any time within the six year statute of limitations which applies to serious criminal cases.”
Rushlau makes two other points.
First, the investigation of the crash showed that Harold Benner was in his own lane and operating normally when struck by another vehicle. The absence of an indictment does not mean that Benner had the slightest responsibility for this crash.
Second, the criminal investigation is limited to the circumstances which lead up to the crash.
A private attorney recently submitted a notice to the Town of Waldoboro regarding events after the crash. Any issue regarding those events is civil. It is not part of the prosecutorial and Grand Jury process which evaluates criminal responsibility for causing the crash.
