Brian Walshe has been found guilty in the killing of his wife, Ana Walshe, bringing the high-profile case to a close.
Prosecutors told jurors that Walshe, 50, carried out the murder and then dismembered Ana, 39, before discarding her remains in multiple dumpsters.
During closing arguments, ABC News reports that Norfolk County Assistant District Attorney Anne Yas said the crime was deliberate and driven by a failing marriage. “He needed her dead,” Yas told the jury, describing the relationship as being in crisis.
Jurors deliberated for almost four hours on Friday, December 12 without reaching a verdict before returning Monday morning, December 15. On Monday, the jury deliberated for another two additional hours. Once the guilty verdict was read, Walshe showed little to no emotion.
Sentencing is scheduled for Wednesday, December 17. Walshe faces life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Prosecutors presented extensive circumstantial and digital evidence during the two-week trial, including surveillance footage showing Walshe purchasing tools and supplies at a Lowe’s store on January 1, 2023, NBC News reports.
Receipts entered into evidence showed that the items — which included a hacksaw, utility knife, hammer, snips, a Tyvek suit, shoe guards, rags, and cleaning products were purchased with cash and totaled $462.
Investigators also highlighted internet searches recovered on Walshe’s devices on the same day, including queries such as “best way to dispose of a body,” “how long for someone to be missing to inherit” and “can you identify a body with broken teeth,” according to prosecutors.
Ana Walshe was reported missing on January 4, 2023 after her employer raised concerns when she failed to report to work.
Authorities said Brian Walshe initially told police that his wife had left their home on New Year’s Day due to a work emergency in Washington, D.C., a claim later scrutinized at trial through recorded police interviews.
Defense attorney Larry Tipton argued during closing arguments that prosecutors failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Walshe killed his wife or had a motive to do so. He described Walshe as a devoted husband and father and urged jurors to reject what he called speculation.
