STAR, Idaho (AP) — A 47-year-old man from Star has been sentenced to serve up to 45 years in prison for a brutal attack on a former partner, including charges of rape, use of a deadly weapon, and attempted strangulation.
Matthew Blazek was found guilty by a jury in Ada County for breaking into the home of his former girlfriend in July 2023. The victim, who woke to find Blazek standing over her, was subjected to hours of violence, including beatings, strangulation, and threats with a knife before being raped. The attack took place in front of the victim’s young child, leaving her with extensive injuries.
Following his conviction in January, the judge deemed Blazek a high risk to re-offend and labeled his behavior as “predatory.” He has been sentenced to a minimum of 20 years in prison before being eligible for parole, with a maximum term of 45 years. If he serves the full sentence, Blazek will be 92 years old upon release.
The victim’s courage in reporting the attack to the police led to the successful prosecution of Blazek, ensuring that justice was served in this heinous crime. The severity of the sentence reflects the gravity of the crimes committed and emphasizes the need to protect victims of domestic violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
Blazek’s actions have had a lasting impact on the victim and her child, underscoring the importance of supporting survivors of abuse and raising awareness about the prevalence of domestic violence in our communities. The sentence serves as a reminder that such acts of violence will not be tolerated, sending a strong message to others who may consider engaging in similar behavior.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic incident, it is crucial to provide resources and support for victims of domestic violence and to work towards preventing such acts from occurring in the future. By standing together against violence and promoting a culture of respect and empathy, we can strive to create a safer and more compassionate society for all.