Wisconsin Jury Convicts Maxwell Anderson in Horrific First-Date Murder and Dismemberment Case

Shock and Outrage as Milwaukee Man Found Guilty of Killing and Dismembering 19-Year-Old Sade Robinson After Tragic First Date

Milwaukee jury convicts Maxwell Anderson in murder, dismemberment, and arson of 19-year-old Sade Robinson after fateful first date.

Milwaukee has been shaken to its core after a chilling verdict was delivered in the case of Sade Robinson, a 19-year-old whose life ended in tragedy following a first date with Maxwell Anderson. The six-week trial concluded with Anderson convicted on multiple counts, including first-degree intentional homicide, mutilating a corpse, arson, and hiding a corpse.

Jurors, overwhelmed by the gruesome evidence and compelling timelines, reached a unanimous decision. Prosecutor Ian Vance Curzan painted a harrowing picture: an innocent dinner at a local restaurant quickly spiraled into horror, with digital breadcrumbs and surveillance footage placing both Robinson and Anderson at his Milwaukee apartment. Chilling photos recovered from Anderson’s phone confirmed her vulnerability, adding to the damning evidence.

What Led to Sade Robinson’s Murder After a First Date?

The events unfolded quickly. Robinson and Anderson met at Victor’s restaurant on April 1, 2024, then drove in Robinson’s Honda Civic to a nearby bar before heading to his residence. By the next morning, tragedy had struck—a leg believed to be Robinson’s was recovered from Warnimont Park, and her car was found torched in a distant neighborhood.

Court documents reveal a grim timeline: further remains surfaced for days following the murder, sparking a sprawling search. Robinson’s family and local volunteers scoured South Milwaukee, eventually finding a torso and arm—her blanket discovered nearby.

What Evidence Turned the Jury Against Maxwell Anderson?

Key to the prosecution’s case was a meticulous timeline built from digital footprints, surveillance footage, and Anderson’s phone data. Vivid images, too graphic for television, depicted the crime scene in Anderson’s apartment. Video showed Robinson’s car traversing the city—with prosecutors alleging Anderson was behind the wheel.

Despite a lack of direct DNA evidence at Anderson’s home and no murder weapon recovered, the circumstantial evidence and sequence of events weighed heavily. The prosecution emphasized attempts to burn the Honda Civic and scatter remains, signaling a clear cover-up.

How Did Anderson’s Defense Respond?

Tony Cotton, Anderson’s attorney, challenged the state’s narrative. He pointed out the absence of blood at the apartment, gaps in forensic trail, and the lack of any footage clearly placing Anderson behind the wheel of Robinson’s car. Cotton insisted the case hinged on circumstantial evidence rather than concrete proof of intent or identity.

But the jury, a group of nine women and three men, found the prosecution’s closing arguments more persuasive. The defense’s efforts failed to sow sufficient doubt.

How Is the Community Responding?

Milwaukee residents, activists, and Robinson’s family have demanded justice and greater safety for young women. Community vigils lit the Hoan Bridge pink in Robinson’s honor, and searches for her remaining missing body parts continue. The case has reignited conversations around dating safety and community vigilance.

Read more about legal and crime topics at NBC News, CNN, and USA Today.

What’s Next for Maxwell Anderson?

Sentencing is set for August 15, 2025. Anderson, now a convicted murderer, faces life behind bars for his actions. The victim’s loved ones continue to wait for closure as the search for remaining evidence carries on.

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Stay Informed, Stay Safe—Know the Signs!

• Be Cautious on First Dates: Meet in public, inform loved ones.
• Watch for Red Flags: Trust your instincts and exit when uncomfortable.
• If You See Something, Say Something: Report suspicious behavior immediately.
• Follow Local News: Stay updated on community safety at sources like The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Follow this case for sentencing updates and more safety tips.