Michigan Criminal Lawyers Blog
17-year-old Eric Ortega of Park Township was recently arrested on attempted murder charges. On December 17, Ortega was arraigned on charges of assault with intent to murder in the stabbing of his 32-year-old roommate, whose name was not mentioned in news reports. Ortega allegedly stabbed the victim in their Ottawa County apartment. His arraignment was before Judge Susan Jonas in Holland District Court, who set Ortega’s bond at $750,000. The altercation took place on Friday evening, December 14, at approximately 11:30 p.m.
Following an argument inside the apartment, the victim was repeatedly stabbed in the neck and chest area, suffering life-threatening injuries according to news sources. Lt. Mark Bennett of the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department stated that the victim was at Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital, where he was said to be in critical condition. He was initially taken by ambulance to Holland Hospital, and later airlifted to Spectrum. Another roommate of the two men who attempted to stop the attack sustained minor injuries as well.
Ortega fled before deputies arrived at the scene of the stabbing, and was located the next morning at a relative’s home; he is being charged as an adult according to the Holland Sentinel.
Michigan assault with intent to commit murder lawyers know that because Ortega is charged as an adult, he will face severe penalties if convicted. Those convicted of attempted murder may face any number of years in prison, or even life behind bars according to the Michigan Penal Code 750.83. It is a tragedy when an individual of such a young age is sentenced to a lifetime in prison. While it is not true in every situation, individuals are often charged with serious crimes when they were acting in self defense.
Individuals who are charged with attempted murder, first- or second-degree murder, involuntary or voluntary manslaughter or any violent crime must contact a Michigan criminal defense attorney immediately. Time is of the essence when it comes to protecting your legal rights and developing an effective defense.