Maine woman sentenced to 55 years after murdering ‘best friend’

MACHIAS, Maine (WABI) - Kailie Brackett received her sentence of 55 years of incarceration Friday after being convicted of murdering her longtime “best friend.”

In April of 2022, 43-year-old Kim Neptune was found dead in her Pleasant Point home with almost 500 stab wounds.

Community members say this was the first murder in the area in the last 50 years.

The trial began in December with Brackett and Donnell Dana tried for the crime.

Due to jury deadlock, Dana’s case was ruled a mistrial.

Emotions were high during Friday’s sentencing hearing. Tears were shed by many, spectators mainly for Neptune packed the gallery, and high security were apparent in the courtroom.

Loved ones of Neptune provided impact statements to emphasize how the loss has hurt her family and community at large.

Neptune was described as “kind,” “caring,” and always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.

All who spoke asked the judge for the maximum sentence of life.

Brackett’s family spoke as well, including her parents, sister, and a family friend. They expressed shock and disbelief that Brackett could be capable of such a gruesome murder.

During her statement, Brackett’s mother said her daughter’s council was “incompetent” and did not do their best in representing her. She also expressed worry towards Brackett’s minor son, citing bullying and even alleging that someone burned her trailer down after the murder that she lived in with Brackett and her son.

After a sidebar with all attorneys, Brackett herself addressed the court.

Throughout her statement, Brackett maintained that she did not kill Neptune. She went onto apologize to those affected for not getting closure, and that the killer or killers are most likely still living within the community.

Now, Neptune’s family is focused on healing.

“We’re relieved that justice was served. And then tomorrow and the next day and then so on, we’re going to start looking at different things of healing together as a community, as one,” says Passamaquoddy Councilmember Adam Newell.

Neptune’s nephews, Henri, 12, and Louie, 14, say they will continue to carry on “Auntie Kim’s” memory: “We do a walk for her, and like we go from our health center to Split Rock, which is like a place where we do Indian Day and stuff. We do that, and we also, like our family, we also do a dinner for her.”

The judge did say Brackett will have the chance to appeal her sentence, but it is unknown if that will be pursued.