Accused Stabber Rejects Plea Deal in Rushdie Case, Trial Date Set

Hadi Matar, the New Jersey man accused of stabbing author Salman Rushdie, has rejected a plea deal that would reduce his state prison sentence from 25 to 20 years but add a federal charge that could extend his imprisonment by another 20 years. The plea deal, worked out between state and federal prosecutors and agreed to by Rushdie, aims for a 'global resolution' to avoid two separate trials. Matar, who has been held without bail since his 2022 arrest, remains adamant about going to trial. Rushdie, who was severely injured in the attack, supports the plea deal for a quicker resolution. Matar’s attorney, Nathaniel Barone, stated that his client prefers to take his chances in court. Judge David Foley has instructed Matar to discuss the offer further and provide an answer at his next court appearance on July 2.