The mother of 9-year-old Melina Frattolin shared emotional testimony in Essex County Court, revealing her daughter’s reluctance to travel overseas with her father before prosecutors claim he murdered her during a summer trip to New York.
Kali Galanis explained that her ex-partner, Luciano Frattolin, wished to take their daughter to Ethiopia, his home country, for two weeks in January 2025. However, the plan was abandoned when Melina expressed her refusal to go.
“She didn’t want to go,” Galanis shared during her testimony, indicating her growing unease about the proposed journey.
The court heard about the family’s disagreements concerning Melina’s travel plans, and Galanis’ increasing worries about Frattolin’s intentions. Since their separation in 2019, Galanis had reservations about allowing Melina to travel internationally with Frattolin.
Her attorney had cautioned her about situations where estranged parents take children overseas and do not bring them back. Frattolin suggested extending the Ethiopia trip, but discussions with Melina led Galanis to cancel the travel altogether.
Luciano Frattolin stands trial in Essex County, New York, charged with second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse following Melina’s tragic death.
Instead of the overseas journey, Frattolin proposed touring the northeastern United States with Melina, according to Galanis.
Authorities revealed that Frattolin and Melina traveled through Connecticut and New York before Melina was meant to return home to Quebec. On her return date, Frattolin allegedly falsely claimed Melina was abducted by two unidentified men in a white van, triggering an Amber Alert. Investigations later found no evidence supporting the kidnapping claim.
Melina’s lifeless body was discovered partially submerged in shallow water near Eagle Lake in Ticonderoga. Frattolin pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder and concealment of a human corpse.
Monday’s trial included testimony from Daniel Mauro, a New York State Police investigator. Mauro recounted Frattolin’s comment during questioning that “it would’ve been easier” to kill Melina overseas, including in places like Italy or Ethiopia. This statement raised further concerns about Frattolin’s motives.
The trial continues in Essex County Court.