In the mid-17th century, Marione Lewers resided in Rithorne, a notable farm in the parish of Ayr, Kirkcudbright. Her socioeconomic position as a woman of "middling" status was underlined by her ownership of resources uncommon among her neighbors, such as a horse and corn. These assets positioned her as a figure of some means and influence within her community, yet they might have also made her vulnerable to suspicions of sorcery that were often directed towards those perceived to stand apart. In the context of the time, Marione's relative prosperity possibly aroused jealousy or mistrust, a common precursor to witchcraft allegations.
The trial of Marione took place on April 9, 1658, in Dumfries, amidst a period fraught with witchcraft accusations throughout Scotland. The proceedings reveal a lack of substantive evidence against her; the majority of witnesses summoned, who were questioned just days prior to the trial, professed ignorance regarding the accusations. The trial records indicate that 15 men and 7 women provided pre-trial statements, yet only 9 men and 6 women were called to testify formally. Despite the thinness of evidence, the presence of a minister who confirmed the veracity of the testimonies lent a layer of ecclesiastical authority to her defense, though the minister's identity remains undocumented. Ultimately, the jury acquitted Marione of all charges, a verdict officially recorded as "Not Guilty."
However, the records also hint at lingering shadows over Marione's exoneration. Listed as a "delinquent" in Dumfries, she was noted for potential future citation to appear in the tolbooth—an indication that, despite her acquittal, suspicions persisted. This illustrates the precarious position of individuals accused of witchcraft during this era, where an official verdict of innocence did not necessarily equate to societal absolution or safety from subsequent accusations.