May 14, 2025 – Boston, Massachusetts – Hampden District Attorney Anthony D. Gulluni is proud to announce that longtime Assistant District Attorney Maximilian J. Bennett has been named the recipient of the 2025 William C. O’Malley Prosecutor of the Year Award, one of the highest honors a Massachusetts prosecutor can receive.

This award, given annually by the Massachusetts District Attorneys Association (MDAA), recognizes exceptional prosecutors who embody professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Bennett, a veteran of the Hampden District Attorney’s Office since 2009, has spent the past 15 years serving the citizens of Hampden County with distinction, specializing in the prosecution of violent crimes and homicides.

“For 15 years, Max has given his heart and soul to the pursuit of justice. He takes on the toughest cases, supports the most vulnerable victims, and always leads with compassion,” Gulluni said. “His work on behalf of victims and their families has changed lives, and this award is a testament to the profound impact he’s had on Hampden County.”

Currently serving as Chief of Homicide and Chief Trial Counsel, Bennett oversees the prosecution of the county’s most serious and complex cases. He is frequently called to crime scenes to collaborate with law enforcement at the earliest stages of homicide investigations. His leadership has played a pivotal role in securing convictions in several high-profile cases, including serial rapist Ali Ghaffar and serial killer Stewart Weldon.

In both cases, Bennett demonstrated not only his legal acumen but also a deep and abiding compassion for victims. In the Ghaffar case, he worked closely with six survivors – many of whom faced immense personal struggles including substance use disorder and mental health challenges – helping them navigate the trauma of the legal process and rebuild their trust in the justice system. His support extended well beyond the courtroom, assisting at least one survivor in finding recovery and stability. In the Weldon case, which involved the murders of three women and the survival of several others, Bennett’s steady presence and empathy were a source of comfort for grieving families and traumatized victims. His ability to blend prosecutorial rigor with genuine humanity brought powerful moments of justice, healing, and closure to those whose lives had been upended by violence.

At the MDAA’s 29th Annual Prosecutors Conference on April 3, Bennett accepted the William C. O’Malley Award before a room filled with colleagues and peers. Following a warm introduction from District Attorney Gulluni, Bennett expressed heartfelt gratitude to Gulluni for his steadfast support and enduring friendship. He also thanked his wife, Liz, for her unwavering strength and for the love and dedication she brings to raising their daughter. Reflecting on his career, Bennett shared that he has spent the past 15 years striving to honor the example set by two of his greatest role models: his father, and his uncle, former Hampden District Attorney William Bennett.

Later in his acceptance speech, Bennett reflected on one of the more difficult days in his career, in which he reminded himself of the deeper meaning behind the work.

“While the weight of working through hardship and depravity is immense, it carries with it an undeniable sense of purpose. When you’re standing at the crossroads of struggle, the task of giving a voice to the vulnerable members of society becomes far more than a job or a mission, it is a calling. These are the people whose voices go often unheard, and their stories are buried in the noise of a system that overlooks them. When you’re fighting for them, it’s not about just doing what’s right. It’s about holding onto that responsibility that you are the one they’re counting on. If you don’t do it, no one else is going to,” Bennett said.

The William C. O’Malley Award is a fitting tribute to a prosecutor whose career continues to set the standard for legal excellence in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.