Guilty Conviction Obtained For “Machete Man”

Justice triumphs once again! The hard-working folks at the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office obtained a guilty conviction of a Pittsfield man for threatening people with a large machete.

On Tuesday, a Central Berkshire District Court jury found 40-year-old Craig Mills guilty on single counts of assault with a deadly weapon and disorderly conduct. The jury acquitted Mills on one additional charge of assault with a deadly weapon.

The jury found that Mills stood outside the victims’ home on May 23 and began swinging the weapon and making threats. Judge Paul Smyth sentenced Mills to serve two and a half years at the Berkshire County House of Correction, 18 months direct and the balance suspended.

The Commonwealth requested the court to sentence to 18 months in the House of Correction. Defense Counsel asked the court to sentence Mills’ to time already served while awaiting trial.

District Attorney Andrea Harington had this to say in a media statement:

I thank the Pittsfield Police Department for their response that night and the jurors for their service. People should not be fearful in their own homes. This conviction holds the perpetrator accountable for the harm he caused.

About the Berkshire District Attorney's Office:

District Attorney Andrea Harrington's s office serves all 32 cities and towns in Berkshire County. The office represents the Commonwealth in more than 7,500 criminal cases per year in Berkshire Superior Court, three district courts, three juvenile courts, Massachusetts Appeals Court, and Supreme Judicial Court.

The office works closely with the State Police Detective Unit assigned to the Berkshire District Attorney’s Office, the Berkshire Law Enforcement Task Force, and collaborates with local police departments across the county.

A dedicated staff of more than 50 prioritizes public safety, empowering victims and witnesses through services and support, and building a safe community for everyone and especially the most vulnerable.