Manhattan District Attorney Alvin L. Bragg, Jr. today announced the sentencing of JESSE ARMSTRONG, 44, to 15 years in state prison for fatally stabbing 39-year-old Allen Stanford at a Dave & Buster’s in Times Square in April 2022. On November 14, 2024, ARMSTRONG was convicted by a New York State Supreme Court jury of one count of Manslaughter in the First Degree.       

“Jesse Armstrong will serve a significant state prison term for viciously stabbing and killing Allen Stanford in a business establishment frequented by children and their families,” said District Attorney Bragg. “Mr. Stanford was a beloved father and friend, and my heart goes out to his loved ones as they continue to mourn his loss.”  

As proven at trial, on April 30, 2022, ARMSTRONG and Allen Stanford, who were both with their respective families, were by the prize redemption and gift shop area of the Dave & Buster’s at 234 West 42ndStreet. At approximately 10:40 p.m., ARMSTRONG got into an argument with Mr. Stanford after he accidentally bumped into ARMSTRONG’s child.  

A few minutes later, the argument turned physical. During the physical altercation, ARMSTRONG took out a knife and stabbed Mr. Stanford in the arm and chest. Witnesses called 911 and Mr. Stanford was eventually transported to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead from the wound to his chest. 

ARMSTRONG fled the scene. He was arrested a few minutes later at the Times Square – 42 Street subway station.   

Assistant D.A.s Shanda Strain and Zachary Kaplan handled the prosecution of this case, under the supervision of Erin Tierney (Chief of Trial Bureau 30) and Lisa DelPizzo (Chief of the Trial Division). Trial Preparation Assistant Louis Barber (Trial Bureau 30), Senior Investigative Analyst Isabel Long (Trial Bureau 30) and Senior Rackets Investigator John D’Alessio (Investigation Bureau) provided invaluable assistance with the prosecution of this case. 

D.A. Bragg thanked the New York City Police Department, particularly Detective Stephan Kroski of the Midtown South Precinct Detective Squad.  

 

Defendant Information: 

JESSE ARMSTRONG

New York, NY

Convicted:

• Manslaughter in the First Degree, a class B felony, one count

Sentenced:

• 15 years in state prison

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