In a disturbing turn of events, a Milwaukee man named Maxwell Anderson has been sentenced to life in prison without any hope of parole. He was found guilty of the shocking murder and dismemberment of 19-year-old college student Sade Carleena Robinson. The tragic case captured the attention of Wisconsin back in April 2024, and Anderson’s sentencing marked a key moment in a trial that laid bare some of the darkest aspects of humanity.
34-year-old Anderson was convicted in June on several serious charges, including first-degree intentional homicide, mutilating a corpse, and arson. Authorities revealed that Robinson’s remains were discovered scattered across different counties, with Anderson murdering her just after their first date. Investigating detectives believe he attempted to meticulously cover up his crime.
The sentence was handed down by Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Laura Crivello, who imposed a life-term sentence for the murder charge with no chance for parole, along with extra years for his actions related to arson and dismemberment.
In a powerful moment during the sentencing, Judge Crivello remarked on Anderson’s distorted grasp of reality, stating, “Your view of reality differs from the rest of the world. Your actions were unconscionable.”
Before the sentencing was finalized, Robinson’s heartbroken parents spoke in court. Her mother, Sheena Scarbrough, described Anderson as a “demon,” while her father, Carlos Robinson, expressed deep anger towards the killer, saying, “Everything he did should be done to him. No man should be able to live after what he did.”
The trial exposed further details, showcasing how Anderson and Robinson first met at a bar on April 1. Surveillance footage and phone records placed them together at various locations, ultimately leading to Anderson’s apartment. Prosecutors introduced compelling evidence, including disturbing photos obtained from Anderson’s phone that displayed him inappropriately touching a defenceless Robinson. Notably, her complete body was never found; only dismembered portions were recovered throughout Milwaukee County.
According to Assistant District Attorney Ian Vance-Curzan, Anderson had formulated a detailed plan leading up to the murder. A confidential informant testified about Anderson voicing his intentions before the crime took place. Video recordings showcased Robinson’s car leaving his apartment the next day and being found near Lake Michigan, where prosecutors suspect Anderson discarded parts of her body.
Despite overwhelming evidence, Anderson has adamantly maintained his innocence. At his sentencing, he expressed sympathy towards the Robinson family but stood by his claims of not committing the crimes. “I took this to trial without ever once trying to make a plea deal of any kind because I did not commit these crimes,” he stated.
Moreover, Anderson’s attorney pleaded for consideration of possible parole due to the client’s Navy background and mental health concerns, but the judge rejected this plea outright.
Robinson’s tragic murder has left deep wounds within her community, where she was remembered for her bright and ambitious spirit. Although the life sentence may provide a sense of justice, the real loss her family endures remains immeasurable. As Maxwell Anderson readies himself to pursue an appeal, the facts of the horrifying situation are indisputable: a young woman’s life has been savagely cut short, leaving her community to grieve. For Sade’s family, the life sentence represents not closure, but a solemn assurance that her murderer will never be free again.
