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Suspect pleads guilty in fatal stabbing of USPS worker in Harlem deli

Cruz now faces a prison sentence of 15 years in state prison and five years post-release supervision, according to the Manhattan DA's Office.

Adolfo Carrion

Apr 16, 2025, 1:07 PM

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Jaia Cruz, 24, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the fatal stabbing of a United States postal worker earlier this year.

READ: Loved ones mourn death of postal worker killed inside Harlem Bodega

A memorial was made in Mott Haven to honor the life of 36-year-old Ray Hodges. Cruz and Hodges got into an argument at a Harlem deli in the afternoon prior to the stabbing.

Cruz now faces a prison sentence of 15 years in state prison and five years post-release supervision, according to the Manhattan DA's Office. The official sentencing is set for May 28.


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