New Laws Being Passed Regarding Domestic Violence and Strangulation
Posted on May 31, 2012 3:30pm PDT
Law enforcement officials and prosecutors have long had trouble with attempted
strangulation cases. Unlike other
domestic violence incidents that leave more visible scares, strangulation can be a less
visible crime that is labeled as a misdemeanor. However, some say that
people that strangle their victims may be trying to do more than just
intimidate and scare. Just like in domestic violence cases where victims
are harmed with a gun or knife, abusers can try to kill their loved ones
by strangulation. Yet, not all states have laws that address the severity
of strangulation, therefore making it easier for the attackers to receive
less severe punishments if they are convicted of this offense.
There are currently 30 states that have laws making strangulation a felony.
Last week the governor of Virginia signed a new law making it a felony
to intentionally restrict someone's breathing. California, South Dakota
and Tennessee state legislatures also passed similar laws recently. Now,
police in some states are being trained to recognize some of the signs
of strangulation such as bloodshot eyes and a raspy voice. If you're
a victim of domestic violence and have been subjected to physical abuse,
contact Hutchinson Law today to enlist the immediate help of an experienced
Jacksonville family lawyer from our office.