Notorious: Maine Crime in the Public Eye, 1690–1940

After a stint in the State’s mental Hospital in Augusta from October 27, 1926 to February 2, 1927, Turner’s trial started on February 7, 1927. Mrs. Haskell was called to testify, recounting her perspective. On the day of the murder, Turner went to the Hallen residence and spoke at length with Hallen, even portions spent with Mrs. Hallen attending, in an attempt to sort out the financial disparity. Talk escalated to action, prompting Turner to pump five rounds from his .38 caliber revolver into Hallen. Additionally, Sheriff Graham hypothesized that a woman was involved in Turner’s motive, as the financial ruin brought upon him by Hallen caused an undisclosed woman from Mexico City to leave Turner. Turner was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment on February 12, 1927.