– Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray announced today that an Essex County jury has convicted Bolsano Maldonado, 30, of Newark aggravated assault, possession of a knife and possession of a knife for an unlawful purpose.
Authorities said on June 12, 2012 Maldonado brutally stabbed his former girlfriend causing serious bodily injuries. The crime took place on Summer Avenue in Newark. The 21 year old victim was hospitalized for serious abdominal injuries and required emergency surgery and hospitalization.
Following a trial before the Honorable Martin G. Cronin, Judge of the Superior Court, the jury returned a verdict on Tuesday.
Assistant Prosecutor Judith De Rosa, who tried the case, said, “The victim in this case was amazing. After all she has been through, she was willing to face her abuser in open court and took an active role in the prosecution of the case. Her courage and resilience made all the difference in this case.’’
DeRosa also commended an independent eyewitness who observed the assault and tried to fend off the attacker with her umbrella.
Sentencing is scheduled for Aug. 3. Maldonado faces 5 to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison when he is sentenced. A Mexican citizen, Maldonado was in the U.S. illegally at the time of the assault. Prior to this assault he had been deported on multiple occasions but returned to the U.S.