A 50-year-old New York man has pleaded guilty to murdering his former girlfriend and hiding her dismembered remains inside a suitcase after their relationship ended in 2024. The case came to light when the woman’s family reported her missing and asked authorities to check on her welfare.
Damon Foy, of Kerhonkson, New York, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder on October 7 in Ulster County Court in connection with the death of 44-year-old Alberta Dale, who was originally from Pennsylvania. Prosecutors said the killing occurred between March 31 and April 1, 2024.
Investigators discovered Dale’s remains during a search of Foy’s residence after concerns about her disappearance led police to investigate his home.
Investigation Began After Dale Was Reported Missing
The investigation started on April 1, 2024, when Dale’s family in Pennsylvania contacted authorities because they were concerned about her whereabouts. Deputies went to Foy’s residence to conduct a welfare check but initially found Dale’s vehicle on the property.
The following day, a member of the public found personal belongings belonging to Dale along a roadside in Wawarsing, New York. The discovery gave investigators additional reasons to suspect that something had gone wrong.
Authorities returned to Foy’s residence as the investigation progressed. During a search, officers discovered a suitcase in a closet that appeared unusually heavy for its size. When they examined it, they found Dale’s dismembered remains, including her head.
Investigators also reported finding blood evidence, bone and tissue fragments, and tools inside the residence. The search helped establish the circumstances surrounding Dale’s disappearance and led to further action against Foy.
Suspect Described Anger Over the Breakup
During questioning, Foy admitted killing Dale and spoke about the conflict that had developed between them after their relationship ended.
According to court records, he said he felt betrayed and repeatedly complained that Dale had treated him like a fool and a sucker. He also expressed anger over being told to leave the home.
Prosecutors said Dale had ended the relationship. Court records also described a history of alleged domestic violence involving the couple, including a previous incident involving a gun.
An order of protection requiring Foy to stay away from Dale was active at the time of her death.
Dale had previously told a crime victims unit that she feared Foy could be responsible if she ever went missing. That warning became a particularly troubling detail as investigators pieced together the events surrounding her disappearance.
Previous Criminal History Emerges
Foy’s criminal history has also drawn attention following his guilty plea. According to published reports citing state corrections records, he previously served 18 years in prison following a conviction related to a murder-for-hire conspiracy. He was released on parole in 2017.
The earlier conviction adds context to the case, which prosecutors have described as an example of the serious dangers associated with domestic violence.
Guilty Plea Brings Case Closer to Sentencing
Foy’s guilty plea marks a significant development in a case that began with a missing-person investigation more than two years ago.
Under the plea agreement, he is expected to receive a sentence of 23 years to life in state prison. That is two years below the maximum possible sentence of 25 years to life.
Prosecutors said Dale’s family supported the agreement. Chief Assistant District Attorney Elizabeth Culmone-Mills said the recommendation would not have been made without the family’s support.
Ulster County District Attorney Emmanuel Nneji also emphasized the importance of protecting victims of domestic violence and ensuring that they can live free from threats and abuse.
Foy is scheduled to be sentenced on December 16, 2026, before Ulster County Court Judge Bryan E. Rounds.
The sentencing will be the next major step in the case as Dale’s family continues to seek accountability for her death.
