Haseem Jenkins Found Guilty of Murder in Brutal Beating Death of Social Worker Maria Coto

Verdict in Maria Coto Murder Case

• 🎯 Haseem Jenkins, 32, has been found guilty of murder and manslaughter in the death of Westchester County social worker Maria Coto.
• ⚖️ The jury convicted Jenkins of felony murder, which carries a sentence of 25 years to life.
• 💡 He was found not guilty of intentional murder but guilty of the lesser charge of manslaughter.

Details of the Attack

• 💥 Jenkins was under the influence of PCP when he brutally attacked Coto in May 2024.
• 🏠 Coto had mistakenly knocked on the wrong door at a Peekskill apartment building.
• 💔 She remained in a coma for five weeks before passing away at a hospice.

Courtroom Proceedings and Defense

• 🎤 The defense argued that Jenkins was too high on PCP to form the necessary intent for a murder conviction.
• 🗣️ However, the prosecution contended that drug use did not excuse the brutal nature of the attack.
• 👂 A 911 call revealed Jenkins cursing at the victim during the assault.
• 💰 Prosecution suggested Jenkins may have feared Coto had eviction papers for his Section 8 apartment.

Family's Reaction and Sentencing

• 🙏 Maria Gutierrez, Coto's aunt, expressed relief that the trial is nearing a conclusion, stating it has been a difficult experience for the family.
• 📅 Haseem Jenkins is scheduled to be sentenced on December 11th.