On Monday, Chaquasja "Qway" Veale pleaded guilty to first degree manslaughter in Chenango County Court. In court he admitted to causing the death of a 44-year-old Norwich woman, Alisa Ann Martin, on July 6, 2023. (Photo by Tyler Murphy)

NORWICH – Accepting a plea deal in lieu of murder, a defendant recalled the slaying of a 44-year-old Norwich woman in Chenango County Court on Monday, claiming the victim struck him first and that he killed her over a dispute relating to a dog.

Chaquasja "Qway" Veale pleaded guilty to first degree manslaughter as part of a deal made with prosecutors. Veale was originally charged with second degree murder.

During the proceeding, Veale recalled the events that led up to the death of Alisa Ann Martin and apologized to the victim's family. As part of his plea, Veale agreed to a sentence of 22 years in prison and waived his right to appeal.

Chenango County District Attorney Michael Ferrarese said he accepted the plea after consulting with the family.

Asked to identify himself during the plea, the defendant said he was transgender. Veale was referred to in court with male pronouns.

Chenango County Court Judge Frank B. Revoir explained the key difference between a a second degree murder charge and a first degree manslaughter charge was intent. He said a charge of murder meant a defendant was admitting to an intent to kill, and manslaughter was an admission to an intent to cause serious injury that resulted in death.

In court, lawyers discussed key comments Veale had made to a doctor carrying out an evaluation that amounted to a confession.