Maine convict arrested multiple times for violating bail arrested, released again

Police in Holden, Maine, are expressing frustration over the repeated violations of bail conditions by a local man, David MacKenzie, who has recently been arrested and released on bail once again. MacKenzie had previously struck an 86-year-old man with his car in Brewer in July 2023, leading to his conviction on charges including aggravated OUI and leaving the scene of an accident.

MacKenzie appealed his sentence last fall and was subsequently released on post-conviction bail, which he violated in December 2024. Despite being found in breach of his bail conditions, a judge allowed him to remain free by converting his curfew to house arrest, a decision that has drawn criticism from law enforcement.

Recently, Holden police received a tip regarding MacKenzie's further violations of his bail conditions. Upon investigation, they arrested him again, but he was released shortly thereafter after posting a $1,000 cash bail.

Lt. Andrew Whitehouse from the Holden Police Department voiced significant concern over the situation, questioning the system that allows individuals to repeatedly violate bail without facing prolonged consequences. He stressed the awkward balance between the constitutional right to bail and the need for accountability in cases of repeated violations.

State prosecutors share similar frustrations, advocating for MacKenzie to be held without bail. Their desire for stricter measures highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement when dealing with recurring offenders in the justice system.