Maxwell Anderson, a 34-year-old Wisconsin man, was sentenced to life imprisonment without parole on Friday for the brutal murder of 19-year-old Sade C. Robinson in April 2024. The sentencing followed a trial that saw Robinson’s family express their deep-seated anger and contempt for Anderson, whom they referred to as a “devil.”
Robinson’s mother, Sheena Scarbrough, addressed the court with a passionate plea for justice. She implored the judge to ensure Anderson’s swift return to what she referred to as his rightful place in hell. Scarbrough’s statement was filled with raw emotion and anger, as she vehemently denied Anderson the dignity of being called a man.
The trial was a harrowing experience for the family, with Scarbrough describing it as “freaking torture.” She accused Anderson of knowing his guilt but choosing to prolong their agony by going through with the trial. She also expressed her intention to confront Anderson’s parents, whom she blamed for their negligence.
Scarbrough painted a picture of her daughter as a hero who worked two jobs and helped feed the homeless. She vowed that Anderson would be haunted by his actions and would never find peace or sleep.
Carlos Robinson, Sade’s father, echoed his ex-wife’s sentiments, expressing his wish that Anderson would suffer the same fate as his daughter. Despite the overwhelming evidence against him, Anderson maintained his innocence and announced plans to appeal his conviction.
Judge Laura Crivello of the Milwaukee County Circuit Court criticized Anderson for his lack of remorse. Anderson was found guilty in June of first-degree intentional homicide, mutilation of a corpse, and arson of property. The jury was swayed by graphic photos recovered from Anderson’s phone, showing him with Robinson’s body.
Robinson’s family reported her missing after she failed to return from her date with Anderson. The investigation led to the discovery of Robinson’s dismembered body parts in Lake Michigan. Anderson’s home was found to be prepared for the gruesome act, with the basement covered in painter’s tarp and equipped with a sanitation sink and three saws.
The investigation began when a human leg was found in the water at Warnimont Park, south of Milwaukee. Surveillance footage and text messages between Anderson and Robinson led investigators to Anderson’s home. Further evidence, including the discovery of more body parts and blood in Anderson’s home, solidified the case against him.
Robinson was studying criminal justice at Milwaukee Area Technical College and had considered joining the U.S. Air Force. Her mother vowed to keep her daughter’s memory alive by advocating for missing persons.