Lynn man sentenced to three years, probation for stabbing

SALEM – A Lynn man who admitted stabbing another man in the stomach during an altercation in Salem last year received three years in state prison and six years of probation with the condition he have no gang affiliation or association while in jail.Raymond Pramataris, 28, of 451 Essex St., Lynn, pleaded guilty to charges of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and intimidation of a witness Wednesday afternoon in Salem Superior Court before Judge David A. Lowy.On the evening of Sept. 16, 2006, Pramataris met the 25-year-old Salem victim to discuss the purchase of two computers on Loring Avenue in Salem.Police say when the victim decided he did not want to buy the merchandise, Pramataris pulled out a 3-inch knife and stabbed him in the stomach.Pramataris then fled, leaving his cell phone in a vacant lot.Authorities say the next day Pramataris called the victim, demanding the return of his phone and threatening him if he testified.Pramataris was arrested following an investigation.The victim was taken to Salem Hospital where he was treated and released.The victim apparently believed Pramataris to be associated with a gang.While on probation, Pramataris is to receive substance abuse treatment and counseling, mental health counseling, not have any affiliation with any gang or association while in and out of prison, refrain from all alcohol and drugs, consent to random screenings, get his General Equivalency Diploma, (GED,) and be employed or have five pending job applications on file.A third charge of armed assault with intent to murder was dropped by the commonwealth as part of the plea concession.The sentence imposed was less than the five to seven years sought by Assistant District Attorney Kim M. Faitella.An Essex County grand jury indicted Pramataris in October of 2006. He has been in custody since his arrest and will receive credit for that time served waiting trial.