BREAKING: A male model has been indicted on serious assault charges in connection with the tragic death of his husband, whose body was discovered in their New York City apartment. Donald Zieben-Hood, 40, faces multiple counts of intimate partner violence, while Jacob Zieben-Hood, 34, was found dead with multiple stab wounds on August 1, 2023, in their Harlem home.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has confirmed that Donald Zieben-Hood was indicted by a grand jury for three alleged incidents of domestic violence occurring between February and August of this year. This disturbing case raises critical questions about the circumstances surrounding Jacob’s death, which authorities are investigating as a homicide, though no murder charges have yet been filed against Donald.
According to charging documents, police discovered Jacob Zieben-Hood’s body slumped over on the toilet, with severe stab wounds and bloodshed throughout the apartment. Prosecutors revealed that one of the stab wounds was deep enough to penetrate muscle, indicating a violent confrontation. While the exact cause of death remains pending autopsy results, the scene described by authorities was chaotic, with items scattered and blood on the furniture, walls, and floor.
District Attorney Alvin Bragg stated that Donald Zieben-Hood’s alleged actions escalated over time, detailing a pattern of intimidation and violence against his husband. The indictment includes charges such as two counts of burglary in the first degree, one count of assault in the second degree, and multiple counts of criminal contempt. Donald has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and his attorney has not provided further comments.
The timeline of events reveals a troubling history of violence. In February, Donald was arrested for attacking Jacob, who suffered significant injuries, including swelling and pain in the neck region. Subsequent protective orders were issued, but they were allegedly violated multiple times. In June, Donald reportedly threatened Jacob while holding a knife, leading to another order of protection.
On the evening of Jacob’s death, he reached out to his father, sending distressing photos of his injuries and stating that Donald had “attacked, beat and sliced him.” This alarming communication occurred just hours before Jacob was found dead, illustrating the gravity of the situation and the potential for escalating violence.
At around 4 a.m. on August 1, Donald Zieben-Hood called 911, claiming he found Jacob deceased. He has since been held in custody at Rikers Island without bail. Friends of Jacob have expressed concern over his increasingly isolated life following his marriage to Donald, highlighting the emotional toll of domestic violence.
This case shines a light on the urgent issue of intimate partner violence and its devastating consequences. The District Attorney’s Office has encouraged anyone affected by similar situations to seek help, providing the contact number 212-335-9373 for resources and support.
As investigations continue, the community remains on edge, seeking answers and justice for Jacob Zieben-Hood. The unfolding details of this case demand attention, reflecting both the personal tragedy of lost life and the broader societal challenge of addressing domestic violence. Stay tuned for further updates as this case develops.