A Canandaigua man has pleaded guilty to a violent felony assault stemming from a December incident at a local motel.
Justin Rogers, 27, admitted in Ontario County Court on Thursday that he used an axe to attack a 53-year-old man at the D and D Motel in Canandaigua, intending to cause serious physical injury. The victim was treated at the scene before being airlifted by LifeNet to Strong Memorial Hospital with critical injuries. Rogers pleaded guilty to Assault in the First Degree, a class B violent felony, before Judge Frederick G. Reed.
As part of a plea agreement reached after discussions with the victim’s family, Rogers is expected to be sentenced to 15 years in state prison, followed by five years of post-release supervision. An order of protection will also be issued.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 14, allowing time for the Ontario County Probation Department to complete a pre-sentence investigation report.
The case was prosecuted by First Assistant District Attorney James Nobles. Rogers was represented in court by attorney Peter Chambers.
Nobles said the plea agreement was made with input from the victim’s family.
“While no outcome can undo the harm caused, this resolution provides a measure of accountability and avoids the need for the victim’s loved ones to endure a trial,” Nobles said.
Ontario County District Attorney Jason MacBride added that the resolution reflects careful consideration of the case and those impacted.
“We remain committed to pursuing justice on behalf of victims and their families,” MacBride said.
