A guilty plea has been reached in the death of a Norwich woman last summer.

Chaquasja M. Veale pleaded guilty to the charge of Manslaughter in the 1st degree Monday in Chenango County Court.

Last July, a welfare check on a North Broad Street resident became a homicide investigation after the body of 44-year-old Alisa Ann Martin was found on the evening of July 9th.

In December, Norwich Police charged Veale with Murder in the 2nd degree and he initially pleaded not guilty to the charge.

After initially pleading not guilty, Veale pleaded guilty in Chenango County court today to the lesser charge of manslaughter in the 1st degree, a class B felony.

The defendant apologized to the family and friends of the victim before giving his testimony, alleging that he had gotten into an argument with Martin in her apartment which then turned physical, resulting in him choking her to death.

When it came to working out the terms of a plea deal, there were a few other requirements for the defendant. 

The defendant was required to explain the incident in his words under oath and on record, he had to waive his right to appeal, and he waived his right to a trial by jury.

The defendant also agreed to a sentence proposed by the prosecution, of 22 years in prison with 5 years of post-release supervision.

Norwich police chief Reuben Roach spoke after court today.

Roach said, "Alisa's family, their patience and resolve. It's hard to put in words. Words are insufficient for a loss like this. Alisa's mom, I want you to know that you're in our prayers. And I'm confident that I speak on behalf of the entire community when I tell you that we are here for you, and our doors are always open."

Regarding the guilty plea, Veale is expected back in court on September 6, 2024, for the sentencing.