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Judge Rules Deven Young Competent to Stand Trial in Maine Paddleboarder Killing

The finding clears the way for a May 7 hearing on a possible transfer to adult court.

Overview

  • Judge Eric Walker found Young competent on Wednesday, saying he understands the case and can work with his lawyer.
  • The court sealed the 18-page juvenile competency report and set a May 7 session to address remaining juvenile matters.
  • Prosecutors seek to move the case to adult court, which could bring a sentence of 25 years to life instead of detention only until age 21.
  • Young is charged with killing Sunshine “Sunny” Stewart, who went missing July 2, 2025, and whose death was ruled strangulation and blunt force trauma.
  • If the case is bound over to adult court, it would go to a Knox County grand jury for a potential indictment before any trial.