By: Najla Alexander
Authorities in Atlantic County announced that on Tuesday, December 10, Francisco Bonilla, 35, of Atlantic City, pleaded guilty to first-degree Attempted Murder in front of the Honorable Joseph Levin, J.S.C.
The recommended sentence is 15 years in New Jersey State Prison, subject to the No Early Release Act, meaning that the defendant will have to serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole, officials say.
According to Atlantic County officials, on February 3, Atlantic City police were dispatched to the Cedar Market at 101 N. Rhode Island Avenue in reference to a stabbing.
The investigation revealed that the victim, Emad Wissa, 39, was stabbed by the defendant multiple times, and the incident was captured on surveillance video, Atlantic County authorities stated.
Assistant Prosecutor Marlaina Mutchko represents the State in this matter, officials said.
Atlantic County officials said that sentencing is scheduled for April 4, 2025, in front of Judge Levin.