New York Father Pleads Guilty to Attempted Murder in Shocking Attack on Estranged Wife
In a harrowing incident just days after Christmas, a 36-year-old father from New York City shocked the nation as he ran over his estranged wife with a Ford Explorer while their three children were in the car, then proceeded to stab her in the liver.
Guilty Plea and Severe Injuries
Stephen Giraldo, hailing from Jamaica, Queens, pleaded guilty to attempted murder for this horrific act. The attack inflicted “severe neurological damage” on his estranged wife, Sophia Giraldo, 41, according to Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. Fortunately, the victim survived the ordeal.
Expected 25-Year Prison Sentence
Giraldo is now awaiting sentencing in October, where he is likely to face a 25-year prison term for his actions on that fateful day.
Early Morning Attack
The assault took place at around 5:20 a.m. on December 27, as per Katz’s office. Surveillance footage captured Giraldo’s white Ford Explorer pulling up to his estranged wife’s residence. He was ostensibly there to drop off their three children, aged 6, 9, and 11.
Terrifying Moments
When Sophia Giraldo stepped out of her home, Giraldo reportedly instructed his children to “keep your seatbelts on” and accelerated the vehicle. The car mounted the curb, causing it to tip over, but Giraldo’s actions did not end there.
Violent Turn of Events
Giraldo climbed over his son in the front passenger seat, exited the vehicle through the window, and proceeded to stab his wife with a knife, according to prosecutors. Sophia Giraldo endured severe injuries, including “severe neurological damage,” broken leg bones, and a stab wound to her liver.
Community Outrage
The shocking brutality of this attack, especially considering it occurred in front of the couple’s three young children, has stirred outrage and heartbreak throughout the city. In response to the guilty plea, District Attorney Katz stated, “We welcome the guilty plea and seeing a violent, dangerous man go to prison, but today’s outcome does not remedy the immense pain and lifelong suffering the defendant caused.”
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of domestic violence and the urgent need for support and prevention measures.