Man Convicted of Murder in 2010 Forge Village Road Incident

After an extended delay before coming to 49-year-old Westford man Fredrick Leduc pleaded guilty today in Lowell Superior Court to murder in the second degree.

Lowell Superior Court Richard Tucker sentenced the defendant to life in prison with parole eligibility after 15 years.

Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone praised local law enforcement officials as well as those close to the victim, Karen Leduc.

 “Our thoughts today remain with Karen’s family.  We commend them for the strength of character that they have shown over the past three years and their cooperation with law enforcement, and we hope today’s plea provides them with a sense of justice in this difficult situation," said Leone.  "The case is a stark reminder that our efforts to combat domestic violence must remain a top priority.  Together, we can work to prevent these tragedies by speaking out against domestic violence, supporting victims in need, and prosecuting abusers to the fullest extent of the law.”

The incident took place on January 9, 2010 at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Forge Village Road here in Westford.  Frederick was arrested on January 11 of that year and arraigned a day later at Massachusetts General Hospital.