Classical Music News

Leipzig Quartet Violinist’s Attempted Murder Charge Dropped

June 30, 2016

2 MIN READ

Violinist Stefan Arzberger, who was charged with attempted murder last year, has been given an unconditional discharge - and will face no jail time or fine

German violinist Stefan Arzberger, who was charged with attempted murder in a New York City court last year, has today been given an unconditional discharge - and will face no jail time or fine.

It was alleged the 43 year old gained access to a 64 year old female hotel guest’s room, at the Hudson Hotel in New York City in March last year - before forcefully wrapping his hands around her neck.

The former member of the Leipzig Quartet pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of third degree reckless assault, with the accused’s lawyer arguing he was the victim of a drug spiking and robbery, earlier the same evening, and that he has no recollection of the later unrelated attack.

Assistant District Attorney Joshua Steinglass told the court that his office had agreed to drop the most serious charges due to a lack of ‘discernible motive’ for the attack.

He had also indicated that the victim had not shown objection to the down-graded charge.

“I am very pleased with the outcome of this case and look forward to moving forward with his life,” Stefan has said in a statement.

He will still, however face a potential civil suit brought by the victim.

In December of 2015, Arzberger stepped down from the Leipzig Quartet due to the lengthy US judicial process, and the restrictive bail conditions.

The violinist waived his right to appeal as part of the plea.