Former Maine Prison Official to Plead Guilty to Theft and Bribery

Gerald Merrill, 64, charged with theft and bribery, expected to plead guilty on Monday

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:09pm

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Gerald Merrill, a former deputy superintendent and business manager at two Maine prisons, is scheduled to plead guilty to charges of theft by unauthorized taking and bribery of official and political matters. Merrill allegedly used state-issued credit cards to make payments to five companies controlled by Melanie High, and then received kickbacks and other payments to his personal accounts.

Why it matters

This case highlights the issue of corruption and misuse of public funds within the state's prison system. As a high-ranking official, Merrill's alleged actions represent a breach of public trust and raise concerns about financial oversight and accountability in Maine's correctional facilities.

The details

From March 2014 to July 2023, Merrill is accused of using state-issued credit cards to make payments to five companies controlled by Melanie High. In return, Merrill allegedly received kickbacks and other payments to his personal accounts. High has already pleaded guilty to the same charges as part of a 'highly favorable deal' with the state.

  • Merrill's alleged actions took place from March 2014 to July 2023.
  • High pleaded guilty to the charges on November 3, 2025.
  • Merrill is scheduled to plead guilty on Monday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Gerald Merrill

A former deputy superintendent and business manager at the Mountain View Correctional Facility in Charleston and the Downeast Correctional Facility in Machiasport, who is charged with theft and bribery.

Melanie High

Also charged with theft and bribery, High pleaded guilty to the charges in November 2025 as part of a 'highly favorable deal' with the state.

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What they’re saying

“The bulk of the evidence was expected to be testimony from High, according to a trial brief filed by McKee. She agreed to cooperate as part of a 'highly favorable deal' with the state.”

— Walt McKee, Merrill's attorney (Bangor Daily News)

What’s next

A jury trial for Merrill had been scheduled to take place on March 19, 2026, but he is now expected to plead guilty on Monday, March 11, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of corruption and misuse of public funds within Maine's prison system, and the importance of strong financial oversight and accountability measures to prevent such abuses of power by public officials.