Seven Years for “House from Hell” Husband

DA’S REPORT

Vikas Jagota (DOB 08/16/76) of 28 Butternut Drive, New City, New York was sentenced to seven years in state prison following a jury trial that found him guilty of second degree assault, a class “D” felony, once count of “abortion” in the second degree, a class “E” felony, one count each of endangering the welfare of a child and criminal mischief in the fourth degree, both class “A” misdemeanors, and three counts of assault in the third degree, a class “A” misdemeanor.

On May 22, 2012, following the sentencing of the defendant’s brother in Rockland County Court in a case involving forced labor and physical abuse by his brother against his recently imported wife, the defendant became enraged and assaulted his own wife in their home at 28 Butternut Drive, New City.

Jagota repeatedly slapped the victim in the face and forced her wrist through a glass cabinet. As the brutal assault continued, the defendant prevented the victim from calling police by slamming his fist onto her head, causing her to drop the telephone and collapse. Jagota continued to kick the victim as she lay on the floor.

Additionally, the defendant repeatedly slapped the couple’s young child in the face during this violent altercation.

On September 22, 2012, Jagota punched his pregnant wife in the abdomen and the following day she miscarried.

On December 31 2012, the defendant again assaulted his wife. She again attempted to call 911, but was stopped by her mother-in-law. The victim later told an acquaintance about the repeated abuse, who contacted Ramapo Police.

Vikas Jagota’s mother and sister had been found guilty of  forced labor and his brother guilty of abuse in a prior case involving the family, in which the wife of Jagota’s brother Vishal was imported from India and exploited.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Amanda Doty.