Prom day stabbing suspect Christopher Plaskon pleaded not guilty to the murder of his 17-year-old classmate Maren Sanchez, who was stabbed in a stairwell at Jonathan Law High School in Milford, Connecticut back on April 25th. Her murder took place just hours before prom and authorities are investigating whether or not her refusal to attend prom with Plaskon resulted in her stabbing death.

Plaskon entered his not guilty plea in Milford Superior Court on Wednesday. He wore an orange jumpsuit, his feet were shackled, and he reportedly appeared impassive throughout the proceedings. Plaskon also waived his right to a probable cause hearing and opted for a trial in front of a 3-judge panel instead of a typical jury. Following the hearing his attorney Richard Meehan said he is investigating a possible mental health defense.

Meehan mentioned during Wednesday’s hearing that Plaskon is on both anti-psychotic and anti-anxiety medications.

Christopher Plaskon, 17, will be prosecuted as an adult, and his lawyer was considering a mental health defense.

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Christopher Plaskon is presently being held on $3 million bond at Manson Youth Institution in Cheshire, Connecticut where he is under suicide watch. Charged with murder as a result of the prom day stabbing, he is being charged as an adult. He is facing up to 60 years in prison if convicted of murdering Maren Sanchez. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years.

Plaskon’s family issued a statement just days after Maren Sanchez was killed, offering their condolences to her family.

“Please know that you are forever in our hearts, our thoughts and our prayers,” the statement said. “We join with the entire Milford community to celebrate the life and mourn the loss of this most vibrant and exceptional young woman.”

The prom day stabbing that took the life of Maren Sanchez will never be forgotten. Not only did it rob the Sanchez family of a beloved member, it rattled the peace and tranquility at Jonathan Law High School as well as the entire city of Milford. It forever changed the way anyone in that town will think of prom season again.

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