23-year-old Vermont man charged with killing 82-year-old neighbor

A Vermont man faces charges in the murder of his 82-year-old neighbor, who authorities say was sexually assaulted before being killed. 

Darren Martell, 23, appeared in court, where he pleaded not guilty to a charge of aggravated murder in connection with the death of Roberta Martin. Franklin County State's Attorney Bram Kranichfeld described the incident as "a terrible tragedy for our community."

Authorities discovered Martin's body in a wooded area approximately one mile from her residence. Martell, residing in a trailer near the victim's residence, is alleged to have forcibly entered Martin's house, sexually assaulting her, and subsequently murdering her, then disposing of her remains in the forest.

Investigators reported that Martell allegedly attempted to burn Martin's remains. Law enforcement officials stated that DNA evidence from the victim's body connected Martell to the crime.

"The fact that that activity happened contemporaneously with her remains being found and her disappearance, the court can infer that he was responsible for killing her, as well," Kranichfeld stated during the court proceedings.

Court documents reveal that police found duct tape in Martin's home and similar tape where Martell was staying. Tracks from a green cart belonging to Martell and broken plastic were also discovered at the victim's residence, further connecting him to the scene.

The affidavit mentions an interview with Martell's girlfriend, who told police he was abusive. Other individuals informed authorities they believed Martell was "for sure capable of killing someone."

Vermont State Police Major Dan Trudeau indicated that the investigation is ongoing. "We still have evidence that needs to be processed. We're still working with the medical examiner's office, any other pending search warrants that we have out there. A lot of it is just stuff that takes time," Trudeau said.

If convicted of this Vermont crime, Martell could face life in prison without the possibility of parole. He is scheduled to return to court in the coming days. Police have confirmed that Martell has a prior criminal history.

"My office, the Franklin County State's Attorney's Office, is committed to holding the perpetrator of this act accountable and bringing him to justice," Kranichfeld affirmed.