Jessica Leyland, Witness Retaliation, New York 2019

BUFFALO, N.Y. - A harrowing tale of witness intimidation unfolded in a Buffalo bar, where an Amherst woman's actions left a trail of fear and bodily injury.

Jessica Leyland, 37, of Amherst, NY, pleaded guilty to witness retaliation, a crime that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, Leyland approached a witness at a bar in Buffalo, NY, in July 2019. Leyland accused the witness of 'talking to the feds' and threatened to '(expletive) kill' the witness, prompting a physical altercation.

The witness suffered bodily injury during the confrontation, which was eventually broken up by employees at the bar. Leyland's actions were the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Erie County Sheriff's Office.

The guilty plea is a significant development in the case, which has been ongoing since the incident occurred in July 2019. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.

Leyland's actions have left a lasting impact on the community, and the guilty plea serves as a reminder of the severity of witness intimidation. The case highlights the importance of protecting witnesses and ensuring that those who engage in such behavior face justice.

As the case moves forward, the community can expect to see a more detailed account of the events that led to Leyland's guilty plea. For now, the focus remains on the consequences of her actions and the impact they had on the witness involved.

In a statement, U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross emphasized the seriousness of witness intimidation and the importance of holding those responsible accountable. Ross noted that Leyland's guilty plea is a significant step towards justice and serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in such behavior.

Defendant Information: Jessica Leyland

Criminal Charges: Witness Retaliation

City and State: Buffalo, NY

Exact Date: July 2019

Sentence or Outcome: Pleading guilty to witness retaliation

Dollar Amounts: $250,000 fine

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdny/pr/amherst-woman-pleads-guilty-threatening-witness