Saratoga County District Attorney Karen A. Heggen announced today that Tyler J. Lumia (DOB 04/21/1999) of Saratoga Springs pled guilty to Assault in the First Degree, a Class “B” Violent Felony in violation of New York State Penal Law Section 120.10(1), in connection with an October 31, 2021 stabbing inside an establishment in downtown Saratoga Springs.
The Defendant admitted under oath to stabbing an unarmed man several times in the face and chest following a late-night dispute at a Caroline Street bar in downtown Saratoga Springs. The victim was rushed to Albany Medical Center where he underwent extensive emergency surgery that ultimately saved his life. The subsequent investigation by the Saratoga Springs Police Department soon located and seized numerous surveillance videos and items of physical evidence that were crucial to the People’s case.
“As I have stated previously in all-too-familiar cases,” said District Attorney Heggen “… thanks to the quick response of the Saratoga Springs Police Department this resulted in an assault charge rather than a murder charge. Responding officers, together with several Good Samaritans, were able to immediately apply pressure to the victim’s numerous stab wounds and stabilize him before he entered an ambulance. Further, the Saratoga Springs Police Department’s extensive evidence collection resulted in a tremendously strong case for us to prosecute.”
The twenty-three (23) year-old Defendant is expected to be sentenced to ten (10) years in State Prison on September 14, 2022. Additionally, the Court will impose a Full Stay Away Order of Protection for the maximum period of time in favor of the victim.
The Defendant’s plea marks the most recent Felony conviction and double-digit State Prison sentence in connection with the rise of violent crime in downtown Saratoga Springs.
“My sincere hope,” continued Heggen “… is that this significant plea and State Prison sentence sends a clear message to those who choose to come to downtown Saratoga Springs with the intention of committing violence. Both my Office and the Saratoga Springs Police Department are committed to ensuring the safety of individuals who chose to come to downtown Saratoga Springs and enjoy all that it has to offer.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Frandino together with the assistance of District Attorney’s Office Investigator Jack Barney.