Newark, NJ – A heinous crime has shaken the community as Michael Stewart, a 69-year-old man from Monroe Township, New Jersey, has been sentenced to 97 months in prison for plotting to pay a hitman to kill his ex-wife and her daughter.
According to documents filed in the case, Stewart had discussed the murder of his ex-wife and her daughter with a confidential source in the summer of 2021. He indicated that he would pay for the murders and asked the confidential source to find a hitman.
In October 2021, Stewart met with an undercover agent, whom he believed to be a hitman, and provided him with detailed information about the victims, including their names, addresses, and the layout of their property. He also showed the undercover agent a photo of his ex-wife and provided him with $500 as a partial payment.
The gruesome plot was uncovered through an investigation led by the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark. U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI with the investigation leading to Stewart’s sentencing.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Olta Bejleri of the Organized Crime/Gangs Unit in Newark represented the government in the case. In addition to the prison term, Judge Julien Xavier Neals sentenced Stewart to three years of supervised release.
Stewart’s sentence serves as a warning to those who would seek to harm others through violent means. The community can rest a little easier knowing that justice has been served.
The case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking help when needed. If you or someone you know is struggling with domestic violence, there are resources available to help.
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Key Facts
- State: New Jersey
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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