Three Defendants Sentenced in 2017 Homicide of Wayne Foss

 By New England Pulse Media

WHITNEYVILLE, ME — Nearly eight years after the death of 48-year-old Wayne Foss, three individuals have now been sentenced in connection with his 2017 homicide.

Mr. Foss was found deceased in his home on October 28, 2017. The residence had been intentionally set on fire, but the Office of Chief Medical Examiner in Augusta determined that Foss died from sharp force injuries and inhalation of combustible materials. His death was ruled a homicide.

Following an extensive investigation by the Maine State Police Major Crimes Unit North, the Office of State Fire Marshal, and later the Major Crimes Unit Unsolved, a Washington County Grand Jury indicted three individuals in October 2023. Those indicted were 35-year-old Justin Matthews of Robbinston, 29-year-old Basilio Liranzo of Bronx, New York, and 27-year-old Leanza Boney, also of Bronx, New York.

Matthews was arrested in Saco. Liranzo, already incarcerated at the Maine State Prison on unrelated charges, was served while in custody. Boney was arrested in New York City by Maine State Police Detectives and a U.S. Marshal’s Task Force.

All three defendants pleaded guilty to charges related to Mr. Foss’s death. Sentencing took place over the past several months, with the final sentencing occurring on May 8, 2025.

Justin Matthews was sentenced for Felony Murder to 16 years, with all but 10 years suspended and 4 years of probation. Basilio Liranzo received 16 years for Felony Murder and Arson. Leanza Boney was sentenced to 16 years for Conspiracy to Commit Murder, with all but 5 years suspended and 4 years of probation.

The Maine State Police and Attorney General’s Office emphasized that the outcome demonstrates their commitment to solving homicide cases, regardless of how much time has passed.

Anyone with information about this case or any unsolved homicide or missing persons case in Maine is encouraged to contact the Maine State Police at one of the following numbers:

• Augusta: 207-624-7076 or 1-800-452-4664

• Bangor: 207-973-3700 or 1-800-432-7381

• Houlton: 207-532-5400 or 1-800-924-2261

Information for this article was provided by the Maine Department of Public Safety.