Charles Hedlund

Murderer

2known / alleged victims

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Case Facts

Gender: male
Country: USA
Location: Maricopa County, Arizona, USA
Date of birth: November 22, 1964
Age at first offence: 27
Characteristics: burglary, robbery, financial gain, convicted rapist, to inherit
Victim profile: Christine Mertens, 40 / James McClain, 65
Method of murder: Shooting
Date(s) of murder: March 10/23, 1991
Years active: 1991
Date of arrest: —
Status: Sentenced to death
Sentenced to death on July 30, 1993

Case Summary

Case record: Charles Hedlund

Background

Charles Hedlund was convicted in connection with the murders of 40-year-old Christine Mertens and 65-year-old James McClain during burglaries.

The offence

On March 10, 1991, Hedlund and his half-brother, James Erin McKinney, brutally beat and shot Christine Mertens in her home while committing a burglary. Mrs. Mertens’ son found his mother dead, lying face down on the living room floor. Hedlund and McKinney ransacked Mrs. Mertens’ bedroom and rifled through her purse.

On March 23, 1991, Hedlund and McKinney burglarized the home of James McClain and shot him in the head while he was asleep in his bed. Hedlund and McKinney ransacked Mr. McClain’s home and stole personal property, including several guns.

Investigation

Mrs. Mertens’ son found her dead, lying face down on the living room floor.

Trial

Start of Trial: October 13, 1992

Verdict: November 12, 1992

Presiding Judge: Hon. Steven D. Sheldon

Prosecutor: Louis Stalzer

Defense Counsel: Peter Leander and Thomas Phalen

Hedlund was convicted of first-degree murder for killing James McClain and was sentenced to death.

Hedlund was convicted of second-degree murder for killing Christine Mertens, two counts of burglary in the first degree, and one count of theft.

Sentencing

Sentencing: July 30, 1993

Aggravating Circumstances:

Previously convicted of serious offense
Pecuniary gain

Appeals

Hedlund v. Sheldon, 173 Ariz. 143, 840 P.2d 1008 (1992).

State v. Hedlund, 185 Ariz. 567, 917 P.2d 1214 (1996).

Outcome

Hedlund was sentenced to death on July 30, 1993.

Other details

Inmate: 056613 Name: HEDLUND CHARLES, M

Half-brother: James Erin McKinney.

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