New York – A New York man was ordered to spend the next three decades behind bars followed by 15 years of post-reIease supervision for the fataI stabbing of his prgnant wife, Samanta and the assault of their children, nine and six.
The 35-year-old defendant, D. Garner, had previously pleaded guilty earlier this year to first-degree mansIaughter for the death of his 29-year-old spouse, who was five months pregnant at the time of the attack last year. He also admitted to two counts of first-degree assault for stabbing their children.
According to New York State Police, troopers responded to a domestic dispute at the couple’s home. Upon arrival, they found the victim with multiple stab wounds; she was airlifted to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries, along with her unborn daughter. The two girls were also treated for stab wounds and survived the attack.
During the sentencing hearing, the victim’s parent delivered a victim impact statement, expressing his belief that the murder was motivated by the defendant’s desire for a male child. He believed that the defendant was angry about the gender of the unborn child. He stated, “He had wanted a boy.” He also shared that the traumatic event had deeply affected the girls, whom he has since adopted, declaring, “I am their father now; I will protect them.”
The defendant requested the possibility of future contact with his children, should they wish it. District Attorney Smith objected, advocating for no-contact orders for the maximum duration permitted by law. Judge Hubard agreed, issuing complete stay-away orders effective until 2056. The defendant reportedly refused to sign these orders.
In a statement, the District Attorney acknowledged the efforts of law enforcement and victim support services, noting that the plea agreement spared the children the trauma of testifying in court. He emphasized that while the sentence cannot undo the tragedy, it ensures that the defendant will be held accountable for his actions.
The 35-year-old man is currently serving his sentence in a New York state prison. The case has left a lasting impact on the local community, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic violence.