Charlotte, N.C., October 17, 2025
News Summary
A Mecklenburg County judge has denied a motion to revoke the bond of America Diehl, charged in connection with the murder of Mary Collins. This ruling has sparked outrage from Collins’ family, particularly her grandmother, who feels the decision disrespects her granddaughter’s memory. Collins was reported missing in April 2020 and later found murdered, having been stabbed over 130 times. The ongoing legal challenges highlight systemic issues in the justice system, with trials for other suspects not expected until 2026.
Charlotte, N.C. – A Mecklenburg County judge has denied a motion to revoke the bond of America Diehl, one of four individuals charged in connection with the 2020 murder of Mary Collins. The decision has led to considerable outrage among the victim’s family, particularly her grandmother, Mia Alderman, who has been a vocal advocate for justice since Collins’ disappearance.
Mary Collins was reported missing in early April 2020, shortly before her body was discovered concealed inside a mattress. She had reportedly been lured to an apartment and brutally murdered, with evidence suggesting she was stabbed over 130 times. Investigators from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department allege that Diehl helped dispose of Collins’ body after the crime. Three other suspects, Kelly Lavery, Lavi Pham, and James Salerno, are also awaiting trial. Lavery has already pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and received a sentence of at least 25 years.
Diehl, who was 19 years old at the time of the alleged crime, faced two charges: accessory after the fact and concealing a death. After posting a $150,000 bond, she was released less than a year after her arrest, with initial conditions requiring her to remain in Mecklenburg County. However, she has since relocated to South Carolina and is now subjected to a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Concerns arose when the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office filed a motion to revoke Diehl’s bond. They cited multiple violations of her bond agreement, including failing to charge her electronic monitoring device and breaking her curfew. Despite this, Judge David Strickland denied the motion, removing Diehl’s electronic monitoring requirement and expressing dissatisfaction with the performance of private monitoring companies.
The decision provoked a strong reaction from Alderman, who described the ruling as a “direct affront” to her granddaughter’s memory. Alderman has been actively campaigning for justice for Collins, launching an initiative called “Mary’s Voice” to raise awareness about her case and advocate for systemic changes within the justice process. She emphasized her grief over the loss of her granddaughter and the frustration stemming from the delayed justice efforts for Collins and her family.
The Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office is currently facing a backlog of homicide cases, with trials for the other suspects in Collins’ murder not expected until 2026. Diehl’s next court hearing is scheduled for December 2025, following several previous rescheduled dates.
Collins, who had a cognitive disability, was remembered as a kind and vulnerable individual with a passion for art and music. Investigators’ findings indicate that the suspects in her murder had planned the crime, luring her under the guise of friendship before perpetrating the brutal act.
The visible frustration and grief of Collins’ family underscore the ongoing quest for justice, highlighting the systemic issues within a legal system struggling with a backlog of homicide cases.
FAQ
Who was Mary Collins?
Mary Collins was reported missing in April 2020 and was later found murdered, having been stabbed over 130 times. She had a cognitive disability and was described as kind and vulnerable.
What charges does America Diehl face?
America Diehl faces two charges: accessory after the fact and concealing a death in connection with Mary Collins’ murder.
What was the judge’s ruling regarding Diehl’s bond?
Judge David Strickland denied the motion to revoke Diehl’s bond and removed her electronic monitoring requirement, despite her alleged violations of the bond agreement.
What is “Mary’s Voice”?
“Mary’s Voice” is a campaign launched by Mia Alderman to advocate for justice for her granddaughter, Mary Collins, and to raise awareness about the issues related to the case.
What has been the response of Collins’ family to the legal proceedings?
Collins’ family has expressed outrage over the legal proceedings, emphasizing their frustration and grief over the delayed pursuit of justice.
When is the next court hearing for America Diehl?
The next court hearing for America Diehl is scheduled for December 2025.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Mary Collins, reported missing April 2020 |
| Charges Against Diehl | Accessory after the fact, concealing a death |
| Judge’s Ruling | Motion to revoke bond denied; electronic monitoring removed |
| Family Response | Outrage and frustration with justice system |
| Next Court Date | December 2025 |
| Notable Fact | Collins was stabbed over 130 times |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Judge Denies Bond Revocation for America Diehl in Collins Murder Case
Lebanon Sees Increase in Traffic Citations and Domestic Assault Reports
South Pointe High School Secures Victory Over West Charlotte
Kentucky Coaches Scout Top High School Prospects in Rock Hill
Rock Hill Community Grieves After Tragic Shooting Incident
Rock Hill Parents Charged in Son’s Fatal Shooting Case
Tragedy Strikes Rock Hill: 16-Year-Old Jayden Reid Shot and Killed
Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: Mary Collins Case Update
- WSOC TV: Judge Denies Bond Revocation
- WBTV: Judge’s Ruling on Mary Collins Case
- Wikipedia: Mary Collins
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Murder
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
