AUGUSTA, Maine — A 21-year-old Waterville man accused of killing his co-worker is walking back on a former plea that he is not guilty of the crime.
At the Capital Judicial Center in Augusta Tuesday, Spridal Hubiak said to a judge that he is guilty of murdering 52-year-old Angela Bragg in late December of last year. Court documents obtained by NEWS CENTER Maine earlier this year explained in detail how Hubiak stabbed Bragg at a Damon’s Beverage in Waterville after locking the store’s front doors 45 minutes before closing time.
However, a judge is not accepting Hubiak’s plea until he undergoes a competence evaluation to confirm he fully understands his decision to change his plea and is doing so voluntarily.
"Frankly, even moments ago we were recommending against this course of action. But we have discussed this with him extensively," Hubiak’s defense team explained to the judge.
At Tuesday’s hearing, both prosecutors and the defense said they do not share the judge’s concern about Hubiak’s competence.
According to the prosecution team, evidence is ready to be used in a trial regarding Hubiak’s actions both leading up to and following the murder of Bragg.
Prosecutors at Tuesday’s hearing say notes found in Hubiak’s cell phone seem to indicate he planned the murder in advance, "where he talks about scouting, prepping, getting a mask, [and] how to disguise his car," among other things.
Bragg’s family members say while they understand the court’s decision, they are anxious for justice to be served for their loved one.
"She was my best friend," Bragg’s ex-husband Dave Bragg said. "I just feel bad, my kids don’t have a mom, and I have to step up a little bit. My grandbabies want their grandmother, and she’s not there."
Hubiak is due back in court on Oct. 11.