A Massachusetts man with ties to a jail house gang was arraigned in court on Tuesday for the brutal attack of a Salem woman, and police say they believe the attack may have been set up by an angry ex-boyfriend from behind bars.
Authorities said that Peter Turco, 39, showed up at the apartment of Sarah Turner, 28, and asked for a glass of water. When Turner let him in, Turco allegedly started ranting about her ex-boyfriend being unhappy with her before viciously attacking her.
A doctor determined that some type of edged weapon was used in the alleged assault, causing Turner a broken jaw in two places, a broken orbital bone, and blood in her right eye. The beating was so severe that doctors say she may lose sight in one of her eyes.
Authorities said Turner's boyfriend is still serving time at Middleton Jail for robbery. Both men joined the "Crazy white Boyz" gang inside, and Turco was just released days before the alleged attack.
Shannon Turner, who was in court for Turco's arraignment, said she expected him to be charged with more than just assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, mayhem, and home invasion.
"I am appalled by the fact when they started listing the charges that they did not list attempted murder," Shannon Turner said.
She said her sister moved on from her ex and is now focused on recovery.
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"I still have a little sister and that's one of the most important things," Shannon Turner said.
Turco's will be back in court sometime in August.
In the meantime, family and friends Sarah Turner are trying to raise money for her multiple surgeries ahead and have set up a gofundme page. A fundraiser event will also be held on Saturday, July 23, at 7 p.m. at Salem Common Historic District on North Washington Square.