Donnie Smith was Arraigned on Charges Including Attempted Murder in the First Degree

Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced that Donnie Smith, age 32, of Newburgh, was arraigned in Orange County Court on an indictment charging Attempted Murder in the First Degree, two counts of Attempted Murder in the Second Degree and two counts of Assault in the First Degree.  He was remanded back to Orange County Jail in lieu of $1,000,000 cash bail, or $3,000,000 fully secured bond or $9,000,000 partially secured bond and is next scheduled for a conference on May 15, 2024.

As alleged in documents filed and statements made in court, on March 31, 2024 Smith violently attacked his mother in a residence in the City of Newburgh, stabbing her repeatedly with a sharp object in the neck and back.  As Smith was leaving the residence he encountered his aunt, who he stabbed repeatedly in the neck and back.  After attacking both women, Smith fled and was located and arrested by members of the City of Newburgh Police Department later that night.  As a result of the attack, Smith’s mother is paralyzed and his aunt sustained serious and permanent injury.

“The sheer brutality of the alleged acts in this case is terrifying,” said District Attorney David M. Hoovler. “The life-changing consequences for the victims in this case underscores the dangers of domestic violence.   The City of Newburgh Police deserves praise for their rapid response and for the investigation which led to the arrest of the defendant.  I urge all victims of domestic violence to come forward and to know that there are resources and support available to them from my Office and agencies such as Fearless! Hudson Valley.  The prosecution of violent felonies will continue to be a bedrock priority of my Office.”

The case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Julie Mohl.

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.