Havre De Grace Man Found Guilty In Assault, Strangulation Of Wife: Prosecutor

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — A 62-year-old Havre de Grace man has been found guilty in the assault and strangulation of his wife that started in an Edgewood motel room and spilled over to the parking lot.

On July 23, 2023, police were called to an Edgewood motel where Alexander Beniquez and his wife were staying. Evidence presented during the trial showed that Beniquez hit his wife then strangled her, leaving visible bruises and marks. She was unconscious for several minutes, according to the prosecution. After she regained consciousness, the couple argued in the parking lot of the motel. Then when she got into the car with him after he promised to take her somewhere safe, but they continued to argue, court documents showed. At an intersection, the victim jumped out of the vehicle and took off running. She went into a restaurant and called 911. Beniquez left the scene before police arrived.

After a two-day trial by jury, Beniquez was found guilty of first-degree assault and second-degree assault.

“As a long time domestic violence prosecutor, cases like these will always be a priority under my administration. The cycle of domestic violence is one that results in the loss of far too many lives and I am proud of the work my office is doing to protect those most vulnerable and ensure that justice is served before life is lost," said State’s Attorney Alison M. Healey.