Milo Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Killing 1-Month-Old Son in Domestic Violence Case
Reginald Melvin, a 30-year-old man from Milo, Maine, has been sentenced to 25 years in state prison for the death of his 1-month-old son. Melvin pleaded guilty to domestic violence manslaughter as part of a deal with prosecutors. The sentencing took place on Wednesday, with Superior Justice Bruce Mallonee imposing a 25-year sentence, with an additional 5 years suspended and 6 years of probation.
Melvin’s attorney clarified that he took an Alford plea, where he does not admit guilt but acknowledges that there is enough evidence to find him guilty in a trial. The sentence was determined based on factors such as the severity of the infant’s injuries, his young age, and the fact that his death was a result of domestic violence.
According to Sylus’ mother, Desiree Newbert, she discovered the lifeless baby in the early morning hours of August 29, 2021, with Melvin holding him. Newbert reported that the baby had a cut on his cheek that wasn’t there when she put him to sleep and that he was wearing a different onesie. She also revealed that Melvin had threatened to kill everyone in the family on the day Sylus was born and had previously hit and choked her. Newbert had asked Melvin to avoid touching the baby due to his lack of knowledge and history of violence.
Investigations revealed that Sylus had suffered multiple signs of blunt force trauma all over his body, leading to the conclusion that his death was a result of shaking, squeezing, and head impacts. Melvin had a history of domestic violence charges and violations of protection orders over the past decade, as confirmed by a criminal background check.
During the sentencing hearing, Newbert addressed Melvin directly, expressing her grief and anger. She stated that there was no reason for Melvin to touch their son and that he should be ashamed and haunted by his actions for the rest of his life. Melvin, who was present in court, chose not to address the judge. His attorney mentioned Melvin’s difficult upbringing but did not provide further details.
The case has drawn attention to the state’s child welfare system. Sylus was one of more than two dozen children whose deaths were flagged in 2021 by the Office of Children and Family Services. The agency is under scrutiny for reportedly not following up with Newbert after she reached out for help. Bill Diamond, a former state senator involved in child advocacy and welfare efforts, criticized the agency’s failure to intervene, emphasizing that a single home visit could have made a difference.
The Office of Program Evaluation and Government Accountability (OPEGA) has announced that it will review the Department of Health and Human Services’ involvement in this case, as well as another case involving a parent scheduled for sentencing in September. Diamond expressed skepticism about OPEGA’s reports, claiming that they often sidestep agency failures and do not consider input from relatives who may have concerns about the agency’s actions.
In conclusion, Reginald Melvin’s sentencing to 25 years in prison for the death of his 1-month-old son has brought attention to the issue of domestic violence and the shortcomings of Maine’s child welfare system. The case highlights the need for better intervention and support for families in crisis to prevent further tragedies.
