DA Hoovler Announces 12 Year Sentence in Newburgh Attempted Murder Case

Defendant Previously Admitted to Stabbing Victim in Daytime Attack

Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced that on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, Jonathan Esson, 34, of Newburgh, was sentenced to twelve (12) years in state prison to be followed by five (5) years of post-release supervision in connection with his guilty plea to Attempted Murder in the Second Degree for a daytime stabbing in the City of Newburgh.

As alleged in statements and filings made in court, Esson drove his taxicab by a man who was at the rear of his vehicle near his fiancée, and two children on July 9, 2021 in the City of Newburgh. It is alleged that Esson had been pursuing the man’s fiancée and had stalked her for a period of time leading up to that day. Upon seeing the man, Esson stopped his taxicab, crossed the street, and stabbed the man a single time in the back as he was taking groceries out of his trunk. Esson then fled the scene before being located and taken into custody later that day, where he was found to be in possession of the knife used in the attack. The victim drove to the hospital and was treated for serious injuries while there. After his arrest, Esson made statements to the police that indicated his intent was to kill the victim. At the time of his plea, Esson admitted that he attempted to kill the man when he stabbed him in the back.

District Attorney Hoovler thanked the City of Newburgh Police Department for their investigation and arrest of the defendant.

“This violent and brazen daytime attack on a man in front of his family was heinous,” said District Attorney Hoovler. “Thankfully, the availability of immediate medical attention prevented a senseless loss of life. I applaud the swift and thorough investigation by the police officers involved in this case, which ensured that the defendant would be brought to justice. My Office will continue to prioritize the prosecution of violent felony offenders and seek significant sentences appropriate for their horrific acts.”

The case is prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Ryan Greenbaum.

A criminal charge is merely an allegation by the police that a defendant has committed a violation of the criminal law, and it is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the State of New York’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.