(WNY News Now) – A Buffalo resident pleads guilty to violent felony after injuring victim in a dispute over money.
Buffalo, N.Y. – Joel A. Brown, 45, of Buffalo, has pleaded guilty to one count of Attempted Assault in the First Degree, a Class “C” violent felony. Acting Erie County District Attorney Michael J. Keane announced the plea, which was entered before State Supreme Court Justice Paul B. Wojtaszek.
The charges stem from a September 9, 2024, incident in the Town of Tonawanda. Around 4:08 p.m., police responded to a reported shooting on the 300 block of Kenmore Avenue. A 36-year-old man, suffering gunshot wounds to his hand and lower torso, was rushed to ECMC by Twin City ambulance for treatment.
Investigators determined the shooting occurred during a dispute over money. Brown fired multiple shots, attempting to inflict serious physical harm on the victim.
Brown, who remains in custody without bail, faces a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for January 27, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.
Acting DA Keane praised the investigative efforts of Detective Frank DiRienzo, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, and the Buffalo Police Department for their collaboration in resolving this case. Assistant District Attorney Ryan M. Flaherty of the Major Crimes Bureau prosecuted the case.