Saratoga County District Attorney Karen A. Heggen announces that Angel A. Gopi (DOB 11/10/1986) of Schenectady, NY, pled guilty in Saratoga County Court to Criminal Mischief in the Third Degree in violation of Penal Law Section 145.05(2) a class “E” Felony, before Saratoga County Court Judge James A. Murphy, III. With his guilty plea, Defendant Gopi admitted that on October 22, 2022, he intentionally damaged the property of another person in an amount exceeding $250.00.
Representatives of the Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office have been in contact with the victim throughout the proceedings and took her thoughts into consideration in reaching a plea agreement with the defense. Assistant District Attorney, Rachael W. Phelan, prosecuted the case. District Attorney Heggen recognizes the dedication and efforts of ADA Phelan with her work on this case. “ADA Rachael W. Phelan was prepared to start a trial in this matter next week. Her thorough preparation and strength of the case is evident in the defendant choosing to plead guilty to the felony charge.” The Saratoga County District Attorney’s Office recognizes the efforts of the Saratoga Springs Police Department which developed a strong case for the prosecution. DA Heggen notes, “This is a case of a repeat convicted felony offender choosing to put his interest above those of others and continuing to commit crimes. His plea in court holds him responsible for his actions and will close the case with a notable sentence.” It is anticipated that at sentencing on January 3, 2024, the defendant will receive a sentence in a state correctional facility of 1 ½ to 3 years incarceration.
DATED: November 1, 2023