BRONX MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ASSAULT FOR THE 2004 ATTACK OF ICE CREAM TRUCK OWNERS

Bronx District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced today that Fernando Esparza, 53, has been convicted of assaulting the owner / operators of an ice cream truck in March 2004.

Esparza, of 645 Barretto Street, the Bronx, pled guilty to two counts of Assault in the 1st degree for the severe beating of Luis and Juana, (Jenny) Marrero. State Supreme Court Justice Lawrence Bernstein set sentencing for Wednesday, June 14, 2006 in Part 20. Under the terms of the plea agreement, Esparza is expected to be sentenced to concurrent terms of ten years imprisonment for each count of assault.

The incident occurred on March 27, 2004 as the Marrero's and their granddaughter returned to the truck depot in the Hunts Point section of the Bronx. According to court papers, Esparza was observed striking Juana Marrero in the face and head with an orange object. Esparza then struck Luis Marrero in the head with the same object.

The Marrero's sustained numerous skull fractures, which required emergency treatment. Juana Marrero remained hospitalized for more than a month.

This case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Debra A. Guarnieri of the Trial Division.