Vermont Man Accused of Murder Seeks to Represent Himself

BRATTLEBORO, Vt. — Shawn Conlon, accused of the 2023 murder of Claudia Voight in Windham, Vermont, has informed the court of his intention to represent himself in the upcoming trial. This development comes after Conlon previously requested a new attorney in September.

Details of the Case

Conlon has pleaded not guilty to the murder of Voight, who was found dead in her Windham home in February 2023. According to police, Conlon was renting a room in Voight’s house and stopped paying rent in late 2022, but continued to reside there. Investigators determined that Conlon attacked and killed Voight WCAX.

Conlon’s Statement to the Court

During a court appearance on Thursday, Conlon asserted his innocence, stating, “Your honor, I shouldn’t be here. I never so much as raised my voice to this woman. My DNA is nowhere on her. I should not be here.” WCAX.

Court’s Response and Potential Delays

The judge strongly discouraged Conlon from self-representation. It is anticipated that Conlon will be assigned a new public defender, which could further delay the trial proceedings WCAX.

Family Frustration

Voight’s family has expressed frustration with the delays in bringing the case to trial, stating that each court appearance reopens emotional wounds. They have been waiting for over two years for answers regarding Claudia’s death NBC5.

Separate Case: Burlington Strangling

In a separate case, Claude Mumbere pleaded guilty to second-degree murder on Friday in connection with the 2023 strangling death of Kelley Cusson in a Burlington park MSN.