Mount Vernon man accused of beating girlfriend to death with hammer pleads not guilty
Joveair Brice is charged with second degree murder in connection to Lisa Grier's death.
More Stories
A man accused of beating his girlfriend to death with a hammer inside her Mount Vernon apartment pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on Thursday at Westchester County Court in White Plains.
Joveair Brice made facial gestures after his attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf in court.
The 28-year-old is charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of his girlfriend, Lisa Grier, 33.
A complaint alleges Brice beat the New York City school paraprofessional multiple times with a hammer inside her East Fourth Street apartment last month, causing her death.
Authorities said Brice was also charged with a carjacking that happened the same weekend as Grier's death.
While his attorneys had no comment, domestic violence prevention advocates, like CarlLa Horton of Hope's Door, said Grier's loss was devastating.
"[I have] tremendous sympathy for the family and friends of Ms. Grier. Our hearts go out to them," Horton said.
Grier's loved ones were in attendance for the court appearance. Off camera, they told News 12 that Grier was scared of Brice.
Horton said that is why it's so important for victims to know that help is available.
"There are organizations in Westchester, including, of course, Hope's Door, who stand by. We have a hotline that operates 24/7," Horton said.
A psychiatric evaluation was requested for Brice during the arraignment.
In the meantime, Horton said victims should never feel responsible for their abuser's actions.
"People, often in their ignorance, will always say, 'Well, why doesn't she just leave?' That's not the question. The question should be, 'Why can't he stop?'" Horton said.
Brice was scheduled to appear back in court in July.
