Florida Man Under Investigation for Shocking Attack Plot

Authorities are unraveling a chilling plot where a Florida man allegedly hired a hitman to carry out an acid attack on his ex-girlfriend, launching a multi-state investigation.

At a Glance

A 49-year-old Florida man, William DiBernardino, hired two individuals to attack his ex-girlfriend.
DiBernardino and his accomplices were arrested in Florida and charged with multiple severe crimes.
The attack resulted in severe injuries to the victim, who remains hospitalized.
The assault was part of a premeditated plan, involving a cross-country trip from Florida to New Jersey.
Authorities from multiple states are involved in the ongoing investigation.

The Attack and Investigation

A 49-year-old Florida man, William DiBernardino, is under investigation for organizing a brutal acid attack on his ex-girlfriend. Authorities state DiBernardino hired Betty Jo Lane, 38, and Jmarr McNeil, 39, to execute the attack in Monroe Township, New Jersey.

The victim, a 42-year-old woman, returned home from work on July 26 when she was approached by Lane, who threw a cup of highly caustic acid at her. The chemical caused severe burns to 35% of the victim’s body. She was airlifted to a burn center, where she remains under treatment.

Law enforcement quickly identified the rented vehicle used in the attack, which led them to DiBernardino and his accomplices in Florida. The suspects waived extradition and face numerous charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, aggravated assault, stalking, and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.

A 49-year-old Florida man hired and paid a man and a woman to travel to New Jersey to carry out an acid attack on a woman with whom he had a prior relationship, authorities say. https://t.co/DNjktZLvQc

— NBC News (@NBCNews) August 23, 2024

Community Impact and Reaction

The severe nature of this case has left Monroe Township reeling. Known as one of the safest small cities in the country, the community is shocked by the brutality of the attack. Neighbors reported hearing sounds similar to an explosion. Jim Glinske, a resident, recounted the event, “I saw her car, and it looked like there was an explosion inside her car.”

Other residents expressed disbelief at the incident’s cruelty. Sahara Bair-Oates said, “Even your worst enemy you wouldn’t think would do something like that.” The gravity of the attack has sparked widespread concern over domestic violence and the lengths individuals might go to enact revenge.

Ex-boyfriend who hired 2 others from Florida arrested after acid attack leaves NJ woman with severe burns: pros. https://t.co/IcUmgXjHDl pic.twitter.com/WGAJPKmoQl

— 1010 WINS (@1010WINS) August 21, 2024

Legal Steps and Future Proceedings

Law enforcement agencies from multiple regions, including the Monroe Police Department, Boynton Beach Police Department, Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, Fort Pierce Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service, collaborated in tracking down the suspects. They are now jailed in Florida, awaiting extradition to New Jersey for trial.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities determined to uncover all involved facets and deliver justice to the victim. The successful arrest and charges signal a stern warning against such heinous acts, underscoring the importance of interagency cooperation in handling severe crimes.