MIDDLETOWN, NY — Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler has announced that Jennifer Ramirez-Castelan, 19, of Middletown, has pleaded guilty to Assault in the Second Degree, a felony, in connection with a violent incident at Middletown High School earlier this year.
At her upcoming sentencing hearing on October 22, 2025, Ramirez-Castelan is expected to receive five years of probation as part of the plea agreement.
School Attack Left Student and Teacher Injured
According to court records and statements made during the proceedings, the assault took place on March 25, 2025, when Ramirez-Castelan and five other students attacked another student on school grounds. During the altercation, a teacher intervened in an attempt to protect the targeted student.
Both the student and the teacher sustained physical injuries during the incident.
Police Investigation and Arrests
The City of Middletown Police Department led the investigation, which resulted in multiple arrests. In addition to Ramirez-Castelan:
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One 18-year-old co-defendant was arrested and charged.
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Four juvenile offenders were also charged, with their cases transferred to Orange County Family Court.
During her plea proceedings, Ramirez-Castelan admitted to intentionally causing physical injury to a school employee while on school property, a key element of the second-degree assault charge.
DA Hoovler: “Schools Must Remain Safe”
District Attorney Hoovler commended the Middletown Police Department and the Enlarged City School District of Middletown for their swift action and assistance throughout the case.
“Our schools must remain free of violence where students and staff feel safe at all times,” said Hoovler. “When violent perpetrators cause injuries to others on school grounds, we will leverage our partnerships with law enforcement and school officials to ensure accountability.”
Hoovler added that the commitment shown by both the police department and the school district reinforces the county’s dedication to student and staff safety.
Prosecution and Legal Note
The case is being prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Nicholas Mangold.
As a reminder, while Ramirez-Castelan has entered a guilty plea, all criminal charges are merely allegations until proven in court. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until the prosecution proves guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This incident marks a serious reminder of the consequences of school violence and the legal system’s role in ensuring that both students and staff are protected on campus.
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