The Rockland man who firebombed a neighbor in the Hasidic village of New Square could be released from prison as early as today.

Shaul Spitzer, 22, was given youthful offender status by Judge William Kelly in Rockland County Court Tuesday. He was 18 years old in 2011 when he targeted Aron Rottenberg for not worshipping at the main synagogue in New Square. Rottenberg was seriously burned in the incident.

Spitzer spoke during the proceedings and says what he did was wrong. "Five years later, I fully understand that I was dead wrong to begin with."

Rottenburg pleaded with the judge not to release Spitzer. "I believe, and I speak on behalf of my family as well, that we would like to ask your honor, not to grant him youthful offender status" said Rottenburg.

Afterward, Rottenberg said while he disagrees with the decision, he was happy to have the chance to speak in court.