Joseph Marino, 30, has been charged with one count of first-degree murder and one count of tampering with physical evidence in a felony prosecution after Sunset Hills resident Melissa Anderson, 64, was found dead in her home.

Charges are merely an accusation. Marino is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

According to a police report, officers from the Sunset Hills Police Department responded to a welfare check on Dec. 11 at Anderson’s residence, located in the 11000 block of Sunlind Drive. Upon arrival, officers found Anderson in the basement, deceased, having suffered severe injuries to her head and upper torso.  

Marino is known to have had a prior relationship with Anderson and was seen on surveillance at the victim’s home at or near the time of her death. A search warrant of Marino’s home revealed bloody clothing and shoes, as well as Anderson’s mail and driver’s license, to be in his trash can. Additionally, Marino had defensive wounds to his hands and ankle.