By: Richard L. Smith
Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer reported that on August 4, 36-year-old Samantha Massimino of Toms River has been sentenced to five years in New Jersey State Prison (NJSP) by the Honorable Guy P. Ryan, P.J.Cr.P.
This comes from her previously entered guilty plea to Manslaughter in connection with the death of 35-year-old Reinaldo Feliciano, Jr., also of Toms River, in the early morning hours of October 24, 2020.
Prosecutor Billhimer said the sentencing will be governed by the No Early Release Act, meaning Massimino must serve at least 85 percent of her prison sentence before becoming eligible for parole consideration.
Massimino pled guilty to the charge before Judge Ryan on May 1, 2023.
According to Prosecutor Billhimer, the tragic incident unfolded on October 24, 2020, at around 4:00 a.m., prompting Toms River Township Police Officers to respond to a local residence following a 911 call requesting assistance for a male victim who had been stabbed.
Responding officers discovered Reinaldo Feliciano, Jr., with a stab wound to his leg.
An investigation by Ocean County authorities revealed that Massimino and Mr. Feliciano, who had previously been in a dating relationship, engaged in a physical altercation at the residence.
During the argument, Massimino retrieved a knife and ultimately stabbed Mr. Feliciano in the leg. He was immediately transported to Community Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries at approximately 4:45 a.m.
Massimino was taken into custody at the scene and has been held at Ocean County Jail since her arrest.