Rockland - A man convicted of murdering his ex-girlfriend will spend the next 45 years behind bars.

In July, 37-year-old Arnold Diana was found guilty of the November 2010 murder of 47-year-old Katrina Windred. Her body was found on the side of a road in Rockland three days after she was reported missing.

Friday, Diana was sentenced to 45 years in prison and ordered to pay $2747.46 in restitution fees for Windred's funeral and her son's counseling expenses.

Katrina Windred's Sister, Holly Butterman, said "It feels good to know our system is being used properly." It was an emotional day in the courtroom for Katrina's family and friends. Along with her sister's testimony, she also played a slide show of Katrina's life in pictures.

However, Arnold Diana's lawyer, Chris MacLean believes the sentence is too harsh for his client, who has mental and physical disabilities. They plan to appeal the sentence. MacLean said, "Life in the Maine State Prison is not fun and it's really hard for those who have the kinds of disadvantages Arnold Diana does." He continues, "We think that he didn't get a fair trial because of the publicity before it, specifically the statements he made that the judge didn't allow as evidence."

The prosecutor believes the sentence fits the crime. Assistant Attorney General, Lisa Marchese, said "It's really unfortunate that the defendant, after being found guilty, continues to perpetuate the myth that someone else could commit this crime."

Print this Story