(New Haven, CT) – John P. Doyle, Jr., New Haven Judicial District State’s Attorney, announced that the Honorable David L. Zagaja today sentenced Evans Espinal, age 38, of New York, to 40 years in prison, suspended after 18 years to serve, followed by 15 years of probation.
A Superior Court jury in Meriden on August 8, 2024 found Espinal guilty of two counts of Sexual Assault in the Second Degree, in violation of Connecticut General Statutes § 53a-71(a)(1), seven counts of Risk of Injury to a Minor, in violation of Connecticut General Statutes § 53-21, and one count of Sexual Assault in the Fourth Degree, in violation of Connecticut General Statutes § 53a-73(a)(1).
Evidence at trial showed the defendant sexually assaulted the victim, age 12, over a two-year period. At today’s sentencing hearing, Judge Zagaja indicated that it was clear that the victim suffered at hands of the defendant for a protracted period of time. Judge Zagaja addressed the victim and her family directly, saying, “You are courageous individuals. I'm confident that you are going to move on from this."
Judge Zagaja told the defendant that his behavior “was selfish, self-centered and predatory. I hope you have a full understanding as to the destruction and havoc you have caused this young lady."
State’s Attorney Doyle said he is grateful to the Meriden Police Department for their investigative work in this case, which was prosecuted by Senior Assistant State's Attorney Nichol Peco, with assistance from Investigator Lisa Fernandes and Certified Legal Intern Milo Cortese.
“This office, as shown by the efforts of Assistant State's Attorney Peco and others, will continue to prosecute and hold accountable those who commit horrific acts against the most vulnerable members of our society, especially our children,” State’s Attorney Doyle said.