Rochester man sentenced to 30 years to life in death of Billy Joe Ahearn

Justin Belanger confers with defense counsel during his sentencing hearing today at Stafford Superior Court. (Rochester Voice photo)

DOVER - The Rochester man found guilty in October in the shooting death of a woman near the former Rochester Friendly's restaurant in June of 2019 was sentenced today to 30 years to life in a New Hampshire state prison.

Justin Belanger, clad in yellow jail garb, appeared somewhat fidgety at times during the hearing, often standing up awkwardly and then abruptly sitting back down.

Belanger, 21, formerly of Lafayette Street, remained expressionless as his sentence was pronounced by Strafford County Superior Court Judge Mark E, Howard, who cited Belanger's inability to control his violent tendencies in his sentencing statement.

Justin Belanger after his arrest, and Billy Joe Ahearn, the woman he shot

"That is why you are a violent kid," Howard said. "Your brazenness is remarkable."

Howard mused aloud that had he killed his intended target that night - Remy Lopez - he would have been guilty of first degree murder instead of second degree murder, which is what he was sentenced on Tuesday.

Billy Jo Ahearn, who was a Rochester transient in the months leading up to her death, was walking with a group who met up with Lopez and some others when the shooting occurred around midnight on South Main Street near Friendly's.

Evidence at trial showed that Belanger had a confrontation with Lopez the night before and swore he'd get him.

"And you tried to make good on your promise just 24 hours later," Howard quipped.

Also learned during the prosecution's sentencing statement was that since his incarceration Belanger had gotten into a fight with another inmate and broken the jaw of a corrections officer who had instructed him to go back to his cell.

Assistant Attorney General Adam L. Woods also informed the court he had been found by jail personnel to have used drugs, been in possession of a shank and had enrolled in no programs or classes.

Woods also noted that Belanger, while a minor, had been arrested 26 times for assault.

Billy Joe Ahearn, 24, died on June 6, 2019, a short time after she was shot.

Ahearn's father was at the courthouse today sitting in the front row. He said after the sentencing he would have no comment.