Convicted Killer in 1980 Braintree Shooting Gets New Trial

Originally published April 10, 2017

BRAINTREE, MA — A man who has spent 36 years in jail for a murder he said he didn't commit is closer to a possible release.

Superior Court Judge Raymond Veary overturned Fred Weichel's 1981 murder conviction and granted him a new trial, according to multiple reports.

Weichel was convicted of killing Robert Lamonica in Braintree in 1980. In an interview, he placed the blamed on Whitey Bulger, claiming it was the famous gangster who gave his name to police.

Veary referenced a police report introduced by the defense which identified a potential second suspect and a witness that only identified Weichel as the killer while 180 feet away in the nighttime after drinking. The defense argues the prosecution did not turn over the report during the 1981 trial.

A spokesperson for the Norfolk District Attorney's Office said they were disappointed in the ruling and are reviewing it.

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