TV boss charged in decapitation case

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - A man accused of beheading his wife in Orchard Park faced a judge Wednesday.

Muzzammil Hassan - the 44-year-old Bridges TV founder - was charged with murder in the beheading of his 37-year-old wife, Aasyia, last Thursday.

Nadia Shahram said, "Everybody in the Muslim community was aware that she was indeed going through abuse."

Shahram is a Williamsville attorney who says she's done work for Bridges TV over the past year.

Orchard Park Police confirm a history of abuse in the Hassan's relationship.

Aasyia, a mother of two, recently filed for divorce and got an order of protection.

When asked if the history of domestic violence will play a role in this case Hassan's defense attorney James Harrington answered, "Yes, sure it will. That is an issue in this case."

Shahram said, "You don't have enough time for me today to tell you how hard it is for a Muslim woman to come out and talk about abuse."

Because of this case, security was extra tight at the courthouse.

A specially trained dog was brought in and windows to the courtroom were covered.

Bridges TV was founded after the 9/11 attacks to bridge cultures and foster understanding.

Regardless where someone lives, divorce in the Muslim community "means shame for Muslim women," Shahram said.

Aasiya was found in the hallway of Bridges TV's Orchard Park office last Thursday after Hassan told police his wife was dead.

Hassan is charged with second degree murder.

Assistant District Attorney Colleen Curtain Gable said, "The penalty for second degree murder is anywhere from 15 to life up 25 to life."

The felony hearing in Orchard Park was brief.

Hassan is being held at the Erie County Holding Center. There is no bail.

A grand jury will decide in the next few weeks if there is enough evidence for a murder a trial.