UPDATE: The president of the Dominican House of Hazleton, Victor Perez, 62, has just pleaded no contest to serious charges of aggravated assault stemming from a shocking incident where he shot the owner of a Spanish-language newspaper. This urgent development occurred on Friday, following a confrontation on October 4, 2023, outside 145 S. Vine St. in Hazleton.
Prosecutors allege that Perez shot Bernardo Perez, the owner of El Periodiquito, over a series of published caricatures that depicted Victor’s family as corrupt. The images included alarming captions, such as “steals everything” and labeling his relatives as “The Diabolical Family.” The attack left Bernardo with permanent injuries to his left wrist, marking a significant escalation in tensions fueled by media portrayals.
In exchange for his plea, Victor Perez faced a felony count of aggravated assault and a misdemeanor count of making terroristic threats, while prosecutors dropped additional charges. Luzerne County Judge Michael T. Vough accepted the plea and set sentencing for February 5, 2024.
This incident is compounded by another serious allegation against Victor Perez, in which he reportedly threatened a woman at the El Sabor De Mi Tierra restaurant on September 16, 2023, brandishing a firearm and making lethal threats. Both allegations highlight a pattern of intimidation and violence linked to perceived threats against his reputation.
In a notable twist, Victor Perez had previously claimed self-defense during the shooting, asserting that Bernardo was armed with a knife at the time. However, the court’s acceptance of his no contest plea indicates a shift in legal strategy.
Judge Vough mentioned that Perez may apply for the Intermediate Punishment Program, a probationary option aimed at rehabilitating non-violent offenders. Prosecutors have agreed to waive any ineligibility issues for this program, allowing Perez to potentially avoid a harsher sentence. He remains free on bail as he awaits sentencing.
These alarming events have raised significant concerns about violence and retribution in local communities, particularly in response to media criticism. As the situation develops, residents and observers are watching closely for further implications surrounding freedom of expression and the boundaries of personal conduct.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as we monitor the outcome of Victor Perez’s sentencing and its impact on the community.
