ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A man who brutally beat another to death on Christmas morning last year was sentenced Wednesday to 25 years in prison, Monroe County prosecutors announced.
Brucewayne Beaman, 23, previously pleaded guilty to first-degree manslaughter in connection with the death of Michael DiCesare, who succumbed to his injuries in February after a violent 18-minute assault. Beaman was sentenced by Monroe County Court Judge Julie Hahn to 25 years in the New York State Department of Corrections, followed by five years of post-release supervision.
Key Points
- Brucewayne Beaman, 23, was sentenced to 25 years for the manslaughter of Michael DiCesare.
- DiCesare was found severely beaten on Christmas morning and died weeks later from his injuries.
- The case was investigated by Rochester Police and prosecuted by the Major Felony Bureau.
On December 25, 2023, Rochester Police officers found DiCesare seriously injured at the corner of Bay Street and Portland Avenue, following what authorities described as a violent robbery. He was immediately transported to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he remained until his death on February 4, 2024.
After an investigation led by the Rochester Police Department, Beaman was identified as responsible for the fatal attack, which prosecutors said lasted 18 minutes.
Prosecutors condemn brutal attack
“Next week will be one year since the violent robbery that led to Michael DiCesare’s death,” said Special Assistant District Attorney Aliyah Fowler, who prosecuted the case. “On a day that the victim should spend with his family, an empty seat will be at their table, because of Brucewayne Beaman.”
Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley called Beaman a “violent, heartless individual” and thanked the Rochester Police Department for their efforts in bringing the case to justice. “This death of a loved one will always have a lasting impact on their family, but especially during the holiday season,” she said.
The conviction and sentence are seen as an important closure for the DiCesare family, though prosecutors acknowledged that nothing could undo their loss.
Long prison term marks conclusion of case
Beaman’s incarceration is expected to last until at least 2049, excluding additional time for post-release supervision. Authorities hope the sentence will provide a measure of justice for DiCesare’s family as they approach the first anniversary of his death.
The Monroe County District Attorney’s Office said it remains committed to pursuing justice for victims of violent crimes, especially those affecting families during significant times like the holidays.