Justice for Lake Luzerne Woman: Murder Conviction Upheld in Second Trial

Justice Served: Lake Luzerne Woman’s Family Finds Closure as Murder Trial Ends

For the second time in three years, Vicki Hayes walked into a courtroom to face the man convicted of murdering her mother, Dorothy "Dottie" Finelli, 59. And for the second time, she left with the relief of knowing that Heath B. Russell, the man responsible for Finelli’s death, would likely spend his life behind bars.

The legal battle had been long and painful—especially after an appeals court overturned Russell’s initial conviction, forcing a second trial. The last six months, Hayes said, had been devastating for her and her loved ones.

"It's really just been awful for all of us," she shared. "It really set me back."

A Community Remembers Dottie Finelli

As the verdict approached, friends, family, and supporters filled the courtroom. Many had been present in May 2003, when Russell was first convicted. Now, they anxiously awaited justice once again.

Finelli was well-loved in the Lake Luzerne and Glens Falls communities. She worked at First Baptist Church in Glens Falls, adored her grandsons, and was an avid fan of the Adirondack IceHawks.

Her daughter, Vicki Hayes, clutched a cherished photo of her parents from a Caribbean vacation in 1997—a reminder of happier times.

"She was a wonderful person. We all miss her tremendously," Hayes said.

A Tough Accusation & A Long Road to Justice

The second trial came with an unexpected twist—Russell’s defense team suggested that Michael Hayes, Vicki’s ex-husband from Lake Luzerne, could have been responsible for Finelli’s murder.

Authorities quickly dismissed the accusation, confirming that Michael Hayes had an alibi on the night of the crime. However, the claim put him through emotional turmoil, forcing him to endure public scrutiny despite no evidence against him.

Michael Hayes, who has since reconciled with his ex-wife, stood by her side in court. As the jury announced its guilty verdict, he and Vicki Hayes embraced, marking the end of a long, painful chapter.

An Emotional Verdict

As the jury delivered the guilty verdict, emotions ran high. Dozens of Finelli’s supporters, many in tears, shared hugs and voiced their relief.

"He's a monster. He's got no conscience," said Vicki Hayes, finally able to breathe a sigh of relief.

Marianne Finelli, Dottie’s niece from Lake Luzerne, didn’t hold back her feelings:

"He can rot in hell now," she declared.

A Lesson for Domestic Violence Survivors

Hayes also took a moment to share a message with other victims of domestic abuse, hoping they could learn from her experience.

"I hope women can learn from my case not to let any man do what he did to me," she said.

What’s Next?

With Russell convicted once again, justice for Dottie Finelli is finally secured.

Her story even gained national attention—a TV series featured the case in an episode titled "Unholy Alliances," bringing awareness to her tragic story.

For more updates on Lake Luzerne, Hadley, Hadley-Luzerne, Town of Day, and Stony Creek, visit HadleyLuzerne.com.