Crime & Safety
Trial Set For Long Island Woman Accused In Vocal Coach's Shoving Death
Lauren Pazienza is accused of shoving Barbara Maier Gustern to the ground, resulting in her death several days later.
PORT JEFFERSON, NY — The Long Island woman accused of shoving an elderly vocal coach to the ground in New York City earlier this year is heading to trial in October, online court records show.
Lauren Pazienza, 26, of Port Jefferson, is accused of approaching 87-year-old Barbara Maier Gustern from behind and pushing her to the ground in Manhattan. Gustern suffered a severe head injury and was taken to the hospital in critical condition. She died five days later.
Find out what's happening in Port Jeffersonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Pazienza turned herself in to authorities after a days-long search in March. She has pleaded not guilty and previously turned down a plea deal twice. She faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted.
Her trial is set to begin Aug. 6, court records show.
Find out what's happening in Port Jeffersonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
As New York City Patch reported, Gustern's death sparked an outpouring of grief in the city's arts community. She was well-known as the vocal coach for "Blondie" singer Debbie Harry, "Bikini Kill" lead Kathleen Hanna, numerous Broadway shows, among many other connections.
Authorities said she called Gustern a "b-—" in the unprovoked attack.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
