DA: Hempstead Man Indicted in Murder of Girlfriend

A Hempstead man was indicted Wednesday on murder charges in the fatal slashing of his girlfriend in June, according to the Nassau County District Attorney’s office.

Alan Espinoza, 26, was arraigned on charges of second-degree murder and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, the DA said.

If convicted, Espinoza could face 25 years to life in prison, officials said.

“Domestic violence is a scourge on our communities and this murder is an example of its horrific consequences,” Acting DA Madeline Singas said in a statement. “A young woman’s life was tragically cut short, and we will do everything in our power to ensure this defendant pays a heavy price for this despicable crime.”

Authorities believe Epinoza slashed the neck of his girlfriend, Neyvin Espinal, 24, after an argument in their Hempstead apartment. Espinal’s body was discovered at 4 p.m. on June 20, officials said. Espinoza was reportedly charged at 1:45 a.m. the next day.

Espinoza is due back in court on Sept. 18.