MAYVILLE, N.Y. (AP) — A New Jersey man accused of stabbing author Salman Rushdie is considering his legal options after an offered plea deal that could impact his time in prison. The accused, Hadi Matar, was presented with a proposal in Chautauqua County Court that would involve pleading guilty to attempted murder in exchange for a maximum state prison sentence of 20 years, reduced from 25 years. Additionally, he would plead guilty to a potential federal charge related to supporting a designated terrorist organization, which could lead to an additional 20 years in prison.
Matar, aged 26, has been in custody since his arrest in 2022 following the alleged attack on Rushdie and moderator Henry Reese at the Chautauqua Institution in western New York. Rushdie suffered injuries, including partial blindness in one eye, during the incident. Despite the proposed plea deal, Matar has maintained his plea of not guilty.
Chautauqua County District Attorney Jason Schmidt mentioned that Rushdie is in favor of a comprehensive resolution to the case to avoid multiple trials. Schmidt initially opposed reducing the maximum state prison term but acknowledged Rushdie's desire for closure in the matter. Matar's attorney, Nathaniel Barone, indicated that Matar is inclined to proceed to trial rather than accept the plea deal, expressing a sentiment of having nothing to lose.
During the court hearing, Judge David Foley advised Matar to discuss the offer with his attorney and provide a response at the next court appearance scheduled for July 2. The decision on whether to accept the plea deal or proceed to trial will ultimately rest with Matar, as he weighs the potential consequences of each legal path.
