According to LoHud.com, Shaul Spitzer, 18, who used to be the Skverer Rebbe’s Butler, is facing 5-10 years for first-degree assault in his attack on Aron Rottenberg in May, 2011, in New Square, NY.
Rottenberg, 44, is recovering from the third-degree burns he sustained over 50 percent of his body, when Spitzer set off an incendiary device at Rottenberg’s home.
Rottenberg was attacked because he chose not to pray at New Square’s main synagogue, under the leadership of the Skverer Rebbe, Rabbi David Twersky. Spitzer was charged with first degree arson and second degree attempted murder.
Rabbi Twersky condemned the attack and asked his followers to pray for Rottenberg’s recovery.
Spitzer was indicted by a grand jury last June and pleaded not guilty. But in February 7, 2012, he pleaded guilty to assault.
Spitzer’s attorneys Kenneth Gribetz, Deborah Wolikow Loewenberg and Paul Shectman told LoHud.com they were hoping for five years, with an early release for good behavior.
“We’re appealing to the court and will be asking the court to render the minimum sentence of five years,” Gribetz said. “Five years is a hard sentence for anyone. But for a young man who has lived in New Square for his entire life, the sentence will be even tougher.”
Prosecutor Stephen Moore will be demanding the 10-year sentence Spitzer accepted when he pleaded guilty.