Hopatcong Killer Must Attend Sentencing, Judge Rules

Guiseppe Tedesco will be in the courtroom when family members of the woman he murdered tell him of their pain and anguish.

The convicted murderer, who shot Alyssa Ruggieri five times in March 2010 inside her Durban Avenue home, will also be sentenced that day.

New Jersey Chief Justice Stuart Rabner wrote the 27-page ruling, according to nj.com, stating the "defendant’s reasons for wanting to be absent from sentencing are not special or persuasive."

Tedesco and his defense attorney, Anthony Iacullo,

When a guilty verdict was returned in January after a month-long trial, Tedesco verbally threatened Ruggieri's brother in the courtroom, and a melee ensued.

As a result, a court officer suffered a concussion and broken leg.

would amend the Crime Victim's Bill of Rights to ensure convicted murderers be present at their sentencing to hear victim's loved one's impact statements.

The Tedesco case was the impetus for Bucco's action.

Tedesco faces up to life in prison plus 20 years. He repeatedly rejected a plea deal that would have given him 30 years in prison.

Date of sentencing has yet to be scheduled.