Questions Arise Over Troy Jackson’s Past
Just a few weeks after the Democrats appointed Troy Jackson as their candidate for the Maine Senate, new revelations have surfaced regarding his violent history. A police report from 1988 has drawn attention to his past actions.
The report, made available through the Bangor Daily News and the Maine Monitor, details an incident on March 12, 1988, when Jackson was reportedly involved in an assault at a home in Fort Kent, Maine.
At that time, Jackson’s long-time girlfriend, Lana Pelletier, allegedly informed officers that he had “pushed her down” and was considering legal action against him. However, there’s no record of any such legal documents being filed. Interestingly, the report refers to Pelletier as Jackson’s ex-girlfriend.
According to the report, when officers asked Jackson to leave the premises, he allegedly kicked in the door, grabbed a man by the throat, and punched him, resulting in broken glasses and facial cuts.
Following this, Jackson paid a $50 fine to settle misdemeanor charges but had no contest pleas related to the altercation.
Both Jackson and Pelletier deny that he was ever violent towards her. Jackson stated, “I have never been violent towards my partner Lana or any other woman,” citing the incident as something he has accepted responsibility for, emphasizing that it doesn’t represent him today.
Pelletier echoed this sentiment, asserting that she does not recall making statements as reported and characterizing their relationship over decades as one of mutual care.
It’s worth noting that Jackson and Pelletier are reportedly cousins and share two sons, although they do not appear to be legally married.
Pelletier expressed concern about personal attacks on their family, stating, “In the 40 years since his mistake at age 19, Troy has grown into a dedicated supporter of Maine, striving to improve conditions in our state.”
Jackson secured the Democratic nomination as the successor to Graham Platner in late July through a quick selection process. Platner’s campaign faced significant challenges and eventually collapsed due to scandals, including violent allegations against him.
The Democratic Party responded critically to Platner, with Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Democratic Senate Campaign Committee Chair Kirsten Gillibrand condemning allegations of violence and abuse at that time. Several Democratic leaders called for his removal as a candidate, underscoring the importance of moral character in their selection process.
As Jackson prepares to face off against Sen. Susan Collins in the upcoming November elections, the resurfacing of these allegations is bound to impact public perception and voter sentiment in Maine.
