Father convicted in Montreal girl’s murder wanted to testify away from jury

Luciano Frattolin has been convicted of second-degree murder and the concealment of a human corpse in the death of his nine-year-old daughter, Melina Frattolin. A New York jury delivered the guilty verdict on August 10, concluding a trial that centered on events that occurred during a family trip to the United States in July 2025.

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I trust people easily. And I trusted the cops.

The girl's body was discovered the day after Frattolin claimed she was killed, near Ticonderoga, New York, approximately 400 kilometers north of New York City. An autopsy determined that Melina died from asphyxia due to drowning. Frattolin's defense had previously suggested his daughter was kidnapped by two men in a white van, a theory quickly dismissed by investigators as "far-fetched."

Throughout the trial, the question of whether Frattolin would testify remained uncertain. Judge Tatiana Coffinger repeatedly advised him of his right to remain silent, explaining the legal ramifications of testifying. While Frattolin expressed a desire to take the stand, stating, "I really want to, but I was advised not to," his testimony was ultimately excluded.

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I need more time.

Without Frattolin's testimony, the defense rested its case after presenting only one witness. The jury deliberated for about an hour before returning the guilty verdict. Frattolin's own statements to police, recorded during the investigation, were presented as evidence. These recordings revealed contradictions and shifting accounts as officers presented new information, casting doubt on his claims.

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I really want to, but I was advised not to.

Crucial evidence, including location data from Frattolin's phone and car, played a significant role in locating the victim's body and establishing Frattolin's guilt, according to the Essex County District Attorney's office. Frattolin stood silently, shaking his head slightly, as the verdict was read.

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far-fetched