Man admits to dismembering ex-girlfriend, keeping severed head in suitcase after she played him 'like a fool'

Man Pleads Guilty to Murder and Dismemberment of Ex‑Girlfriend in New York

Kerhonkson, N.Y. – Damon Foy, 50, of Kerhonkson, has pleaded guilty to second‑degree murder for the killing and dismemberment of his ex‑girlfriend, Alberta Dale, 44, who was a resident of Pennsylvania. The case, which has drawn national attention because of the gruesome nature of the crime, was resolved through a plea agreement that will see Foy receive a sentence of 23 years to life, with a minimum term two years shorter than the maximum of 25 years to life. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 16.

The Crime

Between March 31 and April 1, 2024, Foy allegedly killed Dale and dismembered her body. While attempting to dispose of her remains, law‑enforcement officers discovered a suitcase in Foy’s apartment that contained the victim’s severed head, along with dried blood and a flower. Investigators were unable to locate the rest of Dale’s body during the search. The discovery came after a welfare check was initiated at Foy’s residence on April 1, prompted by a call from Dale’s family members in Pennsylvania who were concerned about her whereabouts.

Foy’s arrest followed the discovery of Dale’s car at his apartment and a phone found abandoned on a nearby road, which led authorities to suspect foul play. When officers entered Foy’s home, he admitted the crime, reportedly stating, “I killed her.” He later told investigators, “I loved her,” while also saying, “The only thing she kept doing was playing me like a sucker.”

The district attorney’s office notes that Foy had a history of domestic violence toward Dale, including an incident involving a gun and the presence of an axe on his property during a search. Dale had previously warned authorities that, if she went missing, it would be because Foy had killed her.

Legal Proceedings

Foy entered a plea of guilty to second‑degree murder on the charge of killing Dale. Under the plea agreement, which was backed by Dale’s family, the prosecutor is expected to recommend the 23‑year‑to‑life sentence. Chief Assistant District Attorney Liz Culmone‑Mills said the agreement was made “with the support of Alberta Dale’s family.” District Attorney Emmanuel C. Nneji emphasized that the case underscores the “total selfish disregard for the life and dignity of another person” inherent in domestic violence, urging stronger protections for victims.

Investigation Details

When investigators shone a flashlight on the suitcase, they immediately noticed what appeared to be dried blood. The search warrant that led to the discovery of the head was obtained after Foy had been questioned following the public discovery of Dale’s phone. The remainder of the victim’s remains were not found during the warrant’s execution.

Context and Reactions

The case has highlighted the ongoing crisis of domestic violence in the United States. Foy’s remarks, including that he felt “played” and “taken advantage of the whole f‑ing system,” reflect a narrative often cited by perpetrators who justify violence as a form of retaliation. Authorities and advocacy groups continue to call for stronger enforcement of laws designed to protect victims from domestic abuse.

The upcoming sentencing hearing will determine the final outcome of this tragic case, as the court weighs the plea agreement, the evidence, and the statements of those affected by Dale’s death.