Jaia Cruz, a 24-year-old transgender woman, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for fatally stabbing a USPS postal worker during an argument at a Manhattan deli. The sentencing sparked an emotional response from the victim’s family.
The Incident
The victim, Ray Hodge III, 36, was stabbed seven times by Cruz after a dispute over who was next in line at the deli. According to prosecutors, Cruz became angry when Hodge was at the counter ordering a sandwich and started an argument, even spitting on him. Hodge threw a lemon juice bottle in response, and Cruz then pulled out a knife and stabbed him multiple times.
Plea Deal and Sentencing
Cruz pleaded guilty to manslaughter last month. In exchange, prosecutors dropped a second-degree murder charge, and Cruz was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Had the case gone to trial, Cruz could have faced up to 25 years.
Judge Gregory Carro called the killing “senseless” and said it stemmed from a “trivial misunderstanding.” He also noted that proving intent to kill is often difficult, which played a role in the plea agreement.
Family’s Reaction
The victim’s mother, Ada Rice, expressed deep frustration and sorrow, saying, “In 15 years, her life goes on. Ray Hodge III, dead. Gone. Not coming back. So I have a problem with that.”
The mother of Hodge’s children also spoke at the sentencing, condemning the plea deal. She called Cruz “pure evil” and said the short sentence was unfair. “When people like this are allowed plea bargains, you get broken families,” she said, warning postal workers to be cautious while working.
Defense’s Argument and Request
Cruz’s attorney claimed that Hodge escalated the argument by using a slur related to Cruz’s gender identity. The lawyer also mentioned Cruz’s medical treatment to maintain her gender identity and requested that she be placed in a women’s prison. It is currently unclear where Cruz will serve her sentence.