Swift Jury Verdict After Six-Day Trial in Erie County
(WNY News Now) – A Buffalo man has been found guilty of second-degree murder for the brutal killing of his girlfriend inside her apartment. Jurors delivered the verdict after just 40 minutes of deliberation following a six-day trial in Erie County Court.
Savon R. Stewart, 30, was convicted of murdering 37-year-old Jena MacDiarmid Beal. On August 7, 2023, Buffalo police responded to a 911 call at an apartment complex on Main Street, where officers discovered Beal’s body. Investigators determined that Stewart had beaten and stabbed her to death.
Stewart now faces up to 25 years to life in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for December 2, 2024, before Erie County Judge Susan Eagan. Stewart remains in custody without bail.
Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane commended the Buffalo Police Department, particularly Detectives Thomas Nunan, Jennifer Zanghi, Scott Malec, Mark White, and Sgt. Keith Fitzner, for their diligent investigation.
The case was prosecuted by Chief Ashley M. Morgan of the Felony Trials Bureau and Assistant District Attorney Caitlyn G. Burns of the Special Victims/Domestic Violence Bureau.
For those affected by domestic violence, the BE SAFE Domestic Violence Victim Advocacy Program offers trauma-informed support. Services are available to all victims, regardless of criminal proceedings. For assistance, call 716-858-4630 or visit www.erie.gov/besafe.
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