Dames sentenced to 24 years in state prison, wanted to withdraw his plea

The Brooklyn man who pleaded guilty to fatally stabbing 20-year-old Stephen LaPointe will be spending 24 years in state prison.

Terrence Dames was sentenced today in Oneida County Court.

However, prior to the sentencing, Dames wanted to withdraw his plea.               

Terrence Dames says he was coerced into accepting a guilty plea and is not satisfied with his attorney's work.

Dames could have faced 25 years to life, but he accepted a deal of 24 years in state prison. 

 "He got your murder charge reduced down to manslaughter in the 1st degree. What do you expect a miracle," asked Judge Michael Dwyer.

Dames responded saying, "no, I don't expect a miracle but what you're offering me- manslaughter is very excessive."

Dames who stabbed 20-year-old Stephen LaPointe back in September has been sentenced to 24-years in state prison.

But, before the Judge Michael Dwyer could sentence Dames, Dames wanted to withdraw his guilty plea.

Dames accepted a plea offer in February, waiving his rights to appeal.

"If you plead guilty this case is over.  You will not, I repeat not to come back here and tell me you changed your mind and you want a trial. You stated I in understand your honor," stated Judge Dwyer, reading the transcript of the plea deal.

Dames is now claiming he did not receive paperwork from his attorney, nor was he able to get in touch with him until today.

Dames says he is not spending twenty-four years of his life for being attacked.

"Before I knew all of this that I read in the law book pertaining to my case, he kind of pressured me to take the plea and he guaranteed me that I would not get a fair trial in this venue which is why I took the plea," explained Dames.

Dames' motion to withdraw his plea was denied by Judge Dwyer.

Dames' attorney, David Cooke says he provided him with all the documentation.

"At the time we did plea approximately six weeks ago he was fine taking the plea. The offer has been reduced to manslaughter. He didn't have to worry about life on the end. He has a definite date of when he will get out," said Cooke.

Cooke says Dames can appeal his sentencing, but it will most likely not be successful. He says Dames will probably serve the 24 years in prison.