The man suspected of fatally stabbing a Staten Island groom-to-be at his engagement party was charged today with second-degree murder and remanded into custody.
Redinel Dervishaj, 35, allegedly plunged a butcher’s knife into the chest of bricklayer Anthony Lacertosa, 27, during an early-morning melee last Saturday in front of the Espana Restaurant.
Dervishaj was nabbed Tuesday hiding out at his aunt’s home in Illinois, police said. He waived extradition and was returned to Staten Island.
Before Judge Alan J. Meyer, Dervishaj’s lawyer, Thomas Reilly, entered a plea of not guilty.
Dervishaj was remanded without bail; Reilly did not oppose the decision.
Dervishaj was later loaded back onto a Corrections Department bus at approximately 11:45 a.m. He was wearing baggy jeans, a Warren Sapp Oakland Raiders jersey and white sneakers.
Speaking outside the courthouse, Reilly said, “Based on my knowledge so far, it looks pretty good for [my client]. I believe there were several people who essentially attacked my client. It seems like he has a good case for self defense. Hopefully justice will prevail.”
On Dervishaj’s state of mind, Reilly said, “I don’t think anybody’s very happy to be locked up. … He’s holding up as best he can.”
On his client’s alleged ties to the Albanian mob, he said, “Obviously, I don’t think that plays any part in whether or not he committed this crime.”
Reilly would not comment on whether or not his client is an American citizen.
Dervishaj is due back in court next Friday.