Defendant sentenced to twelve years in prison

Defendant previously admitted slashing victim in the neck with knife. 

Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced that on Monday, March 20, 2023, Melfred Williams, 53, of Newburgh, was sentenced to twelve (12) years in prison, and five (5) years post-release supervision in connection with his guilty plea in Orange County Court to Assault in the FirstDegree for the May 21, 2022 slashing of a man on Lander Street in the City of Newburgh.

The victim was a life-long acquaintance of Williams.  Several witnesses who saw the slashing immediately rendered first aid to the victim and brought him to St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital.  Williams was subsequently arrested by the City of Newburgh Police Department.

District Attorney Hoovler thanked the City of Newburgh PoliceDepartment for their investigation and arrest of Williams. 

“Far too frequently we see the result of violent crime in the City of Newburgh,” said District Attorney David M. Hoovler. “The dedicated police officers who patrol and investigate the streets of the City should be commended for their work in this case.  Thankfully, in this case, the selfless actions of the bystanders who rendered aid to the victim exemplifies the best aspects of what it means to live in a close-knit and caring community.  My Office will continue to pursue the prosecution of violent criminals in order to protect our community.” 

The case is being prosecuted by Chief Trial Assistant District Attorney Richard Moran. 

This criminal charge is merely an allegation 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.