A government forensic analyst has testified that evidence suggests someone was injured inside the apartment of Constable Noel Maitland, following the disappearance of his girlfriend, 24-year-old Donna-Lee Donaldson, in July 2022.
Maitland is currently on trial in the Home Circuit Court, charged with murder and preventing the lawful burial of a corpse.
The analyst told the court that on July 21, 2022 — eight days after Donaldson was reported missing — a forensic team conducted a detailed examination of Maitland’s apartment. During the search, investigators found a blood-stained entrance mat, as well as two bloodied left-foot shoes — one a Crocs slipper and the other a Puma sneaker.
Blood traces were also discovered on a curtain in the living and dining area. Two kitchen knives, reportedly hidden in a flower pot on the balcony near an empty Dragon Stout bottle, were also recovered, along with a mat that appeared out of place.
Inside the apartment, a black suitcase containing two panties and a size six dress was found, with a baby carrier resting on top. The analyst further observed that one of the three swing bar guards on the living room door was broken and missing a piece, though there was no sign of forced entry.
She noted other unusual details — an empty kitchen bin, little to no food in the refrigerator, and a mark on the floor near the sink indicating that something had recently been removed. The analyst said several air fresheners were scattered throughout the apartment, emitting a strong scent.
Before leaving the scene, she collected swabs and samples for testing.
Donaldson, a social media personality and customer service representative, was last seen alive on July 11, 2022, after leaving home with Maitland. She last communicated with family members the following day while reportedly at his apartment.
The trial is scheduled to continue on Thursday.
