Father receives life sentence in New York for murder of Montreal girl
Luciano Frattolin has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his daughter, Melina, in New York. The judge rejected defense appeals and emphasized the gravity of the crime during the sentencing hearing.
Why it matters
The case highlights the legal consequences of cross-border violent crime and provides closure for the victim's family.
The sentence comes two months after a jury in Essex County Court convicted Luciano Frattolin of second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse in the death of Melina Frattolin.
Judge Tatiana Coffinger delivered the sentence after rejecting a motion to set aside the guilty verdict.
"I hope, at some point in your life, you realize what you have done," Coffinger said in court.
Frattolin would not be eligible for parole before 25 years and is expected to serve his sentence in New York. Coffinger also sentenced Frattolin to one to three years for concealment of a corpse. That sentence will be served consecutively.
The defence issued a notice of appeal following the sentence.
Melina had been living in Montreal with her mother, and had gone on a road trip to the U.S. with her father in July 2025.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in