GOSHEN – Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced on that on Monday, May 10, 2021, Sean Doyle, 38, of Cornwall, pleaded guilty before Orange County Court Judge Craig Stephen Brown to Coercion in the First Degree, Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation, and three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child. Doyle was arrested on March 18, 2019 after his wife, News 12 reporter Blaise Gomez, called police to their Town of Cornwall residence stating that Doyle had assaulted her and placed his hands around her neck. The charge of Coercion in the First Degree was in connection with Doyle having threatened and physically restrained his wife to prevent her from leaving the premises. The three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child were in connection with Doyle’s conduct toward three separate children.
Under the terms of the plea bargain placed on the record at the time that Doyle pleaded guilty, the District Attorney’s Office will recommend that Doyle be sentenced to one and one-third to four years in prison when he is sentenced on September 9, 2021.
After the plea, Ms. Gomez stated, “This is a win not just for me, but for all victims of domestic violence. There is help if they seek it.”
District Attorney Hoovler thanked the Cornwall Police Department for their investigation and the arrest of the defendant.
“Normally, we do not identify victims by name in our statements to the press,” said District Attorney David M. Hoovler. “But Ms. Gomez believes that it is important for those who are subjected to domestic abuse to know about the help that is available for them. I hope Ms. Gomez’ actions in bravely coming forward in this case inspires others who are similarly being victimized to do the same. In this case, as in far too many others, children are also victims. I urge all who are aware of instances of domestic violence, or who are themselves victims, to contact law enforcement. Help is also available by calling Fearless Hudson Valley, Inc. (formerly known as Safe Homes of Orange County) at 845 562-5340.”
District Attorney Hoovler commended Senior Assistant District Attorney Michael Milza and Assistant District Attorney Christine Maggiori, who are prosecuting the case.
This criminal charge is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a violation of the criminal law, and it is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the State of New York’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.