A former campaign staffer involved in a 2020 U.S. Senate race in Maine was convicted this week of embezzling over $200,000 that was intended for cryptocurrency investments. The staffer, Matthew McDonald, was found guilty by a jury in Hancock County Superior Court after a two-day trial that centered on allegations of theft by deception.
McDonald had been employed by Max Linn, who was a candidate in the 2020 Senate race against incumbent Susan Collins. Linn, who passed away in December 2021, was a long-shot candidate known for his unconventional approach, which included dramatic gestures like cutting up a mask during debates in protest of COVID-19 guidelines.
The prosecution presented evidence that McDonald deceived Linn about investing in digital assets between April and July 2021, taking a total of $225,000. An indictment filed in April 2023 stated that McDonald created a false impression of his intentions regarding the investments, which he did not believe to be true, violating state law.
In the aftermath of the trial, attorney Alexandra Harriman, representing Linn’s family, expressed satisfaction with the jury’s decision and emphasized the emotional and financial strain these events had imposed on Linn’s survivors. McDonald’s attorney, Robert Van Horn, was not available for comment following the verdict.
The case took a contentious turn when McDonald accused Linn of brandishing a gun during a disagreement about the investment, a claim that Linn denied. A judge had previously issued a temporary protection order for McDonald in October 2021, highlighting the discord between the former staffer and the campaign candidate.
In a related civil matter, a U.S. District Court judge ruled in November to provide Linn’s estate with $225,000, reaffirming the gravity of the financial losses incurred.
Linn’s campaign was characterized by its self-funding model and his unique, often controversial style, making him a memorable figure in the political landscape of Maine, despite his unsuccessful bid for the Senate.
