A confrontation between a Maine lawmaker and his wife over an alleged extramarital affair has escalated into serious criminal charges that could impact his political future.
According to Daily Mail, Republican State Representative Lucas Lanigan, 45, surrendered himself to York County Jail on Monday morning after allegedly choking his wife during a heated argument about his alleged infidelity.
A confrontation unfolded at Springvale Safe Storage on River Street when Catalina Lanigan, 43, confronted her husband and his alleged mistress. The argument escalated into violence, with Lanigan reportedly strangling his wife for about 20 seconds. Sergeant Jeremy Riddle documented the incident in an affidavit following the altercation.
Catalina managed to escape and return to her home, where she contacted friends before reporting the assault to local authorities around 3 PM. Medical examination at Maine Medical Center in Portland documented evidence of physical trauma, including bruising around her neck and facial injuries consistent with subcutaneous bleeding.
The Republican lawmaker claimed he had been away on a business trip before turning himself in at approximately 9:30 AM on Monday. He is currently being held at York County Jail without eligibility for release.
Law enforcement officials have charged Lanigan with domestic violence aggravated assault, a serious offense that could carry significant legal consequences.
The incident has triggered immediate responses from Maine's political leadership, particularly from House Democrats who have demanded Lanigan's resignation. Speaker Rachel Talbot Ross expressed her stance on the matter, stating:
For the good of our state and his constituents, I am calling for his immediate resignation. And I request that all leaders join me in standing up strongly against domestic violence and calling for Rep. Lanigan to submit his official resignation.
Maine House Democrats released a collective statement emphasizing their position on the matter:
We are stunned, dismayed, and horrified by the details of the charges against Rep. Lucas Lanigan that were disclosed in an affidavit from the Sanford Police Department. Domestic violence of any kind is unacceptable.
The timing of these events is particularly significant as Lanigan is currently campaigning for reelection, facing Democratic challenger Patricia Kidder in next week's vote. Despite the serious nature of the charges, there are no legal restrictions preventing him from continuing his campaign or serving in office if re-elected.
House Republican Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham has taken a more measured approach, indicating that he would wait for the legal process to unfold before making any statements about Lanigan's future in the legislature.
The incident has sparked discussions about accountability in public office and the handling of domestic violence allegations involving elected officials.
Lanigan is scheduled to appear before the court via Zoom on Wednesday at 1 PM, where more details about the incident may emerge. The hearing will likely address both the criminal charges and any potential protective orders that may be implemented.
The investigation remains active as law enforcement continues to gather evidence and statements from witnesses. The incident has raised questions about the obligations of public servants and the standards to which they should be held.
