The Criminal Court has scheduled July 1 for the sentencing of Maldivian nurse Haleemath Lamha Abdul Rahman and Filipino national Marvin S. Y. Vargas, now known as Yusuf, after both were found guilty of the murder of Marvin’s wife, Mary Grace Oned Pineda.

The verdict, delivered on Monday, concludes a case that has drawn significant public attention since Mary Grace's death in October 2021.

Marvin was convicted of intentional homicide, the most serious form of murder under Maldivian law, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Lamha was convicted as an accomplice to intentional homicide and was also found guilty of unauthorized use of another person's property and carrying out an act without the required legal permission.

Mary Grace, a nurse at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), was found dead on October 19, 2021. Marvin brought her to the hospital shortly after her death, initially claiming she had taken her own life before later changing his account and saying she had collapsed.

Suspicious circumstances surrounding her death prompted a police investigation. An autopsy later revealed blunt-force injuries to her head and neck, while toxicology tests detected succinylcholine, a restricted anesthetic capable of causing temporary paralysis.

Investigators recovered a used vial of the drug and additional controlled injections from Lamha’s apartment. During the trial, prosecutors presented more than 100 pieces of evidence, including testimony from over 70 witnesses.

The prosecution also submitted chat records between Marvin and Lamha that allegedly discussed obstacles to Marvin taking a second wife under Philippine law.

Both defendants remain in custody pending sentencing. Marvin, who converted to Islam while in detention and legally changed his name to Yusuf, could face life imprisonment. Lamha could also face a life sentence due to her conviction as an accomplice to intentional homicide.

The court is expected to announce the sentences for both defendants on July 1.