Gov. Mills increases fundraising advantage over LePage
AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Democratic Gov. Janet Mills increased her fundraising advantage over Republican challenger Paul LePage in the latest reporting period, hauling in $605,000 during the 42-day period. The fundraising report that covers the period from June 1 to July 19 lifted Mills’ fundraising haul to $3.8 million. LePage, a former two-term governor, raised about $312,000 for the same period, bringing his total to nearly $1.8 million. There is only one other candidate, Down East physician Sam Hunkler, an independent with a self-imposed spending cap of $5,000.
Judge allows more DNA tests in 34-year-old killing in Maine
PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — A judge has granted a request for additional DNA tests by a man convicted of killing a 12-year-old girl more than three decades ago. Dennis Dechaine is serving a life sentence for the murder and sexual assault of Sarah Cherry, who was abducted while babysitting in Bowdoin. Her body was found two days after she disappeared in July 1988. The Maine Supreme Judicial Court has denied three requests for a new trial. Dechaine contends advancements in DNA testing technology warranted new tests.
Maine ruling could complicate lithium mining project
NEWRY, Maine (AP) — A decision by state regulators could make it difficult for the owners of a potentially rich lithium deposit in western Maine to extract the metal. The owners of the Newry property asked the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to review the possibility of quarrying at the site. Maine mining coordinator Michael Clark said Monday that regulators decided earlier this month the site would be viewed as a metallic mineral mine and not a quarry operation. Maine’s mineral mining laws are among the strictest mining laws in the country.