NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Lauren Pazienza, the 27-year-old woman who fatally shoved an 87-year-old voice teacher, is considering a plea bargain that would include a lengthy prison sentence, one of her attorneys said at a hearing Thursday.
On March 10, 2022, Pazienza shoved Barbara Gustern onto a sidewalk in Manhattan. Gustern suffered severe brain injuries and died five days later.
Pazienza’s attorney, Arthur Aidala, told the judge the defense and prosecutors were discussing a “possible disposition” — a plea deal — that would include a “very long” sentence, reported Newsday.
“Lauren agrees she needs to be punished,” Aidala said. “She understands there is a punishment and a price to pay... She is seriously considering taking some sort of a disposition that puts her in jail for a very long time.”
Pazienza faces first-degree manslaughter charges, and is currently being held at Rikers Island.
A first-degree manslaughter conviction requires prosecutors prove an intent to cause physical harm that led to death. Aidala indicated he’s pushing for the lighter charge of second-degree manslaughter.
A first degree conviction would carry a sentence of five to 25 years in prison, whereas a second degree charge would carry a 15-year maximum.
Pazienza’s next court date is slated for July 20.
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