Public Defender’s Strangulation of Pregnant Girlfriend — How Oklahoma Law Would Treat It
A case recently reported by Law & Crime involved a public defender who, after attending an ultrasound with his pregnant girlfriend, allegedly strangled her and spat on her while she was still in the hospital. Although this attack occurred outside Oklahoma, the scenario serves as an example for how Oklahoma law treats violent domestic abuse involving strangulation and a known‐pregnant victim. If a similar incident occurred in Oklahoma, the accused would face serious felony exposure and long-term consequences.
Key Facts from the Case
- The couple had attended a pregnancy ultrasound together.
- The defendant is a public defender by profession—a position of trust—yet allegedly attacked his partner immediately after the medical event.
- The alleged conduct included strangulation and spitting on the victim while she was pregnant—indicative of both physical force and deliberate humiliation.
How Oklahoma Law Would Apply
Strangulation in a Domestic Context
Under Oklahoma’s statute for domestic abuse, when one household or family member uses or attempts to use force by strangulation, this triggers a felony under 21 O.S. § 644(J)— “Domestic abuse by strangulation or suffocation.” A conviction may result in 1 to 10 years imprisonment and up to a $20,000 fine. In the case above, the act of strangling the pregnant partner would meet the “pressure on the neck or head to restrict breathing or blood flow” element. Evidence of visible neck marks, difficulty breathing, collapse or unconsciousness strongly supports this charge.
Assault or Battery on a Pregnant Woman
Oklahoma also criminalizes knowing assault or battery on a pregnant woman under 21 O.S. § 644(E). This is a felony. If the conduct causes the unborn child’s death, the minimum is 20 years. In the reported incident, the ultrasound attendance shows the defendant knew of the pregnancy. That fact alone would support application of § 644(E) in Oklahoma.
Violation of Protective Orders & Repeat Offender Exposure
Following an incident such as this, Oklahoma courts frequently impose a protective order under the domestic abuse statutes. A subsequent violation of that order can be charged under 22 O.S. § 60.6. If the defendant strikes again or contacts the partner in violation of the order, it can become a felony (1–5 years). Thus, the initial violent conduct may trigger not only the assault/strangulation charges, but also create immediate protective‐order exposure and future risk for violations.
The Urbanic Law Firm Can Help
In violent domestic-abuse matters such as strangulation or assault of a pregnant partner, precision in defense strategy is critical.
At The Urbanic Law Firm, we evaluate every dimension:
- Was there credible medical evidence of strangulation (red marks, swelling, petechiae, loss of consciousness)?
- Was the defendant aware of the pregnancy (ultrasound attendance can be a key fact)?
- Was the spitting incident captured or witnessed?
- We assess legitimacy of the protective order, challenge jurisdictional or procedural defects, and explore defenses such as misidentification, consensual contact, or lack of intent.
If you, a friend or family member are facing allegations of domestic abuse in Oklahoma, particularly when strangulation or an assault on a pregnant woman is involved, contact us for a free consultation: Schedule your free consult today.
FAQs
1. What is considered domestic abuse by strangulation in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, domestic abuse by strangulation occurs when a household or family member willfully uses pressure on the victim’s neck or head to restrict breathing or blood flow. This offense under 21 O.S. § 644(J) is a felony punishable by 1-10 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines.
2. Is spitting on someone a crime in Oklahoma?
Yes. Spitting on another person can be charged as assault and battery. If it occurs in a domestic-violence context or involves a protected victim, the conduct may aggravate the offense and increase sentencing exposure.
3. What happens if I violate a protective order in Oklahoma?
If you are under a protective order and you contact or harass the protected party, you may be charged under 22 O.S. § 60.6. A first violation is a misdemeanor (up to 1 year jail and/or $1,000 fine); subsequent or injury-causing violations are felonies punishable by 1-5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
4. Can I go to prison for assaulting a pregnant woman in Oklahoma?
Yes. Under 21 O.S. § 644(E), if you assault or batter a woman whom you know is pregnant, you may be charged with a felony (repeat or serious injury) and face at least 10 years prison; if the unborn child dies or suffers grievous injury, the minimum punishment is 20 years.
5. How can The Urbanic Law Firm help with Oklahoma domestic abuse charges?
We investigate the facts, challenge the evidence (medical records, witness statements, officer reports), raise defenses like self-defense or mistaken identity, negotiate for reduction or dismissal, and protect your rights throughout the criminal process.
Contact The Urbanic Law Firm
If you’ve been charged with domestic abuse by strangulation, domestic abuse of a pregnant woman, or any other criminal offense in Oklahoma, contact The Urbanic Law Firm today. Call 405-633-3420 or fill out our form.
Based in Oklahoma City and serving clients statewide.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Every case is unique; consult an attorney about your specific situation. Page last updated November 3, 2025. Consult the statutes listed above for the most up-to-date law.
