An ailing Upper East Side woman accused of stabbing her home health aide is seeking release from Rikers Island, but prosecutors contend the attack was intentional. Barbara Salberg, 68, appeared in Manhattan Supreme Court on Wednesday in a wheelchair and hooked to an oxygen mask, prompting her defense attorney to argue she is too sick to remain in jail.
Defense attorney Toni Messina stated Salberg is "literally bent over 45 degrees from physical illnesses" and faces challenges with mobility. Salberg, who reportedly suffers from lung disease and a blood disorder, is seeking home detention. Her attorneys argue she cannot flee due to her condition and has relatives who can care for her.
Manhattan prosecutors opposed the release, presenting details of the alleged August 8 attack. Assistant District Attorney Kaleigh Shea told the court that Salberg told the victim, "This is the knife I’m going to kill you with," before stabbing the 54-year-old aide in the abdomen. Prosecutors also stated Salberg called the victim a "crazy b–ch" after the stabbing, labeling the act "clearly intentional."
The alleged incident occurred in a co-op building on East 73rd Street, reportedly after an argument over an oxygen mask, according to sources. Salberg has pleaded not guilty to charges of attempted murder in the second degree and attempted assault in the first degree.
Manhattan Supreme Court Judge Cori Weston maintained Salberg's bail at $100,000 but indicated she would consider house arrest with electronic monitoring at a future court date. If convicted of attempted murder, Salberg faces up to 25 years in prison. She is due back in court on December 16.