MANHATTAN, NY – District Attorney Alvin Bragg announced the sentencing of 35-year-old Michael Santiago to 20 years-to-life in state prison, followed by lifetime post-release supervision.
Santiago was found guilty by a New York State Supreme Court jury on charges including Rape in the First Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree.
On July 9, 2021, Santiago assaulted a 30-year-old woman in her East Harlem apartment. After she fell asleep post-party, Santiago used a scalpel to remove her clothing and raped her while she was incapacitated.
The victim’s 12-year-old son witnessed the crime and was threatened by Santiago when he intervened.
District Attorney Bragg expressed gratitude to the survivor, her son, and the jury for their roles in the case.