Calogero Ricotta murdered his wife Maria and her son Giuseppe after years of abuse and control. He received a life sentence.
Ricotta, age 64, received a life sentence. He must serve at least 34 years. He will be at least 98 before release is possible, and his actions devastated many people.
Maria was a kind and brave woman. She was a baker, and people remember her as optimistic and funny. Her loved ones miss her dearly.
The judge noted Maria’s warmth and love. She married Ricotta when she turned 39. Their relationship worsened over time. He became controlling and emotionally abusive, and he blackmailed her and abused her financially.
Maria confided in her friends and family. She feared Ricotta would kill and bury her. Police had visited the house before. In 2023, Ricotta attacked Giuseppe using a broom and broke its handle.
Prosecutors said Ricotta threatened Maria, telling her she couldn’t leave the marriage. Maria tried to get free from him. Ricotta killed her in a violent manner.
Maria found divorce papers in secret on May 28th while she was out. Ricotta waited for Maria to get home. He lured her into the living room and then murdered her.
Maria fought to protect herself, sustaining injuries on her arms and legs. Giuseppe tried to save his mother, but Ricotta stabbed him.
The judge said Ricotta made Maria’s life hell, killing her when she tried to leave. Giuseppe worked in catering and suffered a very deep neck wound; Ricotta murdered him.
The judge told Ricotta that Giuseppe died protecting Maria, and his bravery contrasted with Ricotta’s cowardly acts. Ricotta then cut Maria’s throat as well. A knife broke during the attack, and the judge said Ricotta slaughtered them.
Maria and others thought Ricotta’s threats were not serious. He had planned to kill Maria if she left him. Jealousy led to these tragic deaths, and Ashley Wadsworth and Madison Wright suffered similar fates.
These deaths created a void in the community. One person said adjusting to life without them is impossible. A friend said the world is sadder now.
Giuseppe was doing well at work. He overcame struggles and was building his life. A colleague said he is dearly missed.
The judge called the violence shocking. Ricotta had no prior convictions, but violence and control defined his actions. He intended to kill both Maria and Giuseppe.