Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn announces that 36-year-old Jamar L. Harris of Buffalo was arraigned on Sunday morning before Buffalo City Court Judge Peter J. Savage, III on the following offenses:
- One count of Rape in the First Degree (Class “B” violent felony)
- One count of Criminal Sexual Act in the First Degree (Class “B” violent felony)
- One count of Assault in the First Degree (Class “B” violent felony)
- One count of Assault in the Second Degree (Class “D” violent felony)
- One count of Strangulation in the Second Degree (Class “D” violent felony)
- Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Third Degree (Class “D” felonies)
- Two counts of Menacing in the Second Degree (Class “A” misdemeanors)
It is alleged that on Monday, January 1, 2024, the Buffalo Police Department’s Intelligence Unit and Special Victims Unit began to investigate the defendant after a victim reported that she had escaped from a residence in the City of Buffalo. This victim was transported to ECMC where she was treated for injuries to her face, shoulder and back. The defendant is accused of assaulting, choking and threatening the victim.
It is further alleged that on the same date, the Buffalo Police Department was notified of a second female victim. The defendant is accused of forcing this victim to engage in sexual intercourse and other sexual conduct by beating, choking and threatening her. The second victim was taken to ECMC where she was treated for physical injuries.
On Saturday, January 6, 2024, a search warrant was executed at the defendant’s residence on the 200 block of Moselle Street in the City of Buffalo. During the search, investigators allegedly found items of evidence inside of the home.
Harris is scheduled to return on Thursday, January 11, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. for a felony hearing. He was held without bail.
If convicted of the highest charge, Harris faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison.
“The allegations against this defendant are disturbing and we are committed to obtaining justice for the victims. I commend the Buffalo Police Department for their work in this case. Additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues,” said Erie County District Attorney John J. Flynn.
DA Flynn commends the Buffalo Police Department Special Victims Unit, Intelligence Unit, SWAT and Ferry-Fillmore district detectives for their work in this ongoing investigation.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Rachel M. Vicario of the Special Victims/Domestic Violence Bureau and Assistant District Attorney Samantha N. King of the Narcotics/Intelligence Bureau.
As are all persons accused of a crime, the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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