Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 22-year-old Jamya M. Beathley of Buffalo pleaded guilty on Friday afternoon before State Supreme Court Justice M. William Boller to one count of Attempted Burglary in the First Degree, one count of Attempted Assault in the First Degree (Class “C” violent felonies) and one count of Assault in the Second Degree (Class “D” violent felony). The defendant pleaded guilty to charges ahead of her jury trial that was scheduled to begin this week.

On February 28, 2021, at approximately 9:21 p.m., the defendant, while armed with a knife, pepper spray, and two rocks, attempted to unlawfully enter the victim’s home on Potomac Avenue in the City of Buffalo. The defendant and the victim were known to each other and involved in a dispute over money.

A physical fight ensued when the victim confronted the defendant inside of the home. During the altercation, the defendant attempted to cause serious physical injuries to the victim. The defendant stabbed the victim five times in the left arm and once in the back of the head with a knife. After the attack, the defendant fled and drove away from the house in a vehicle.

The victim was initially treated by first responders before being transported to ECMC where she received staples and sutures for the injuries to her head and arm.

Beathley faces a maximum of 15 years in prison when she is sentenced on Friday, August 12, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. She continues to remain released on her own recognizance.

A temporary order of protection remains in effect on behalf of the victim and her grandmother who was home during the attack.

DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department for their work in the investigation as well as the Buffalo Fire Department and the AMR Medical Transportation emergency personnel for their quick actions to help the injured victim.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Hilarie L. Henry and Brendan W. Fitzgerald of the Felony Trials Bureau.