Michael McLellan will serve a life sentence without the possibility of parole for the 2018 murder of Hania Aguilar in Lumberton, marking a final chapter in a case that has ensnared and plagued a town. In addition to other accusations pertaining to the 13-year-old’s death, such as first-degree forcible sex offense and kidnapping, McLellan entered a guilty plea to first-degree murder. According to WBTV, this statement was made as part of a larger admission of his guilt in unrelated incidents that began in 2016.
Lumberton Police Chief Michael McNeill sympathized with the grieving family, saying, “please pray for Hania’s family to begin to heal their broken hearts,” echoing the FBI’s resolve to pursue justice in the case. The plea was entered after multiple court delays, the resolve of local law enforcement and the FBI to bring closure to the case, and the widespread community sorrow over the young girl’s tragic end. According to WBTV and QC News, FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina, Robert DeWitt, expressed his hope that the sentence would provide some solace to Hania’s family and McLellan’s other victims.
However, according to WCNC, McLellan attempted to flee while being taken to Central Prison on the day of his guilty plea. Deputies stepped in after they saw suspicious activity in the rear seat after McLellan used a handmade key to break free from restraints in the transport truck, according to Robeson County Sheriff Burnis Wilkins.
As the repercussions of previous law enforcement mishandlings become more apparent, QC News has revealed that a previous rape case connected to McLellan by DNA evidence may have been handled improperly. Former Robeson County District Attorney Johnson Britt claims that if it had been prosecuted effectively, it might have prevented Aguilar’s death, underscoring the need for diligence in the pursuit of justice. Kimberly Gaugh, a family friend, laments what should have been a “long joyful life” for the 13-year-old as the community mourns the loss of Hania Aguilar.
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