DELWARE COUNTY - On Friday, January 23, a three-week trial concluded with a jury convicting a Davenport man of murder.

Delaware County District Attorney Shawn J. Smith announced that a jury of his peers found Justin T. Valk, 49, of Davenport, guilty of the following charges:

Murder in the 2nd Degree, a Class “A-II” felony.

Assault in the 1st Degree, a Class “B” felony.

Reckless Endangerment in the 1st Degree, a Class “D” felony.

Two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 5th Degree (Intent to Sell), Class “B” felonies.

Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 5th Degree (Intent to Sell), a Class “D” felony

Sentencing is scheduled for March 26, 2026.

The trial stemmed from an arrest made on August 5, 2022, when members of the New York State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation in Oneonta arrested Justin Valk following an investigation. The investigation determined that in early August 2022, Stephanie Valk, his wife, suffered a medical event and that Justin Valk’s actions recklessly caused her death.

Investigators obtained evidence showing that Justin Valk recorded video of Stephanie Valk and failed to assist her or render aid for more than 20 hours while she was suffering.

The New York State Police thank Delaware County District Attorney Shawn J. Smith for his dedication and efforts in successfully prosecuting this case.

- Information from the NYSP