The use of a weapon during a crime can escalate charges. For example, when a weapon is used during an assault, the charges can escalate from a simple assault to an aggravated assault. With the upgraded charges come more severe penalties.
Portland police have charged an Oregon man with several felonies after alleging that he used an unusual weapon -- his hair -- to harm his girlfriend. According to police, they were called to the man's home in southeast Portland following a domestic dispute. The man's girlfriend claimed that she and the man had gotten in a fight in which the man got increasingly violent. The woman alleges that at one point, the man used his long dreadlocks to choke her.
When police arrived they arrested the man. The woman was taken to a local hospital and treated for non-life-threatening injuries. Following his arrest, the man was charged with menacing, strangulation, second degree kidnapping, fourth degree assault and second degree assault. Each of these charges is a felony and the man could face serious penalties including prison time if convicted.
In addition to the prison time, this man could face social challenges following his release. For felons, their criminal records can make it difficult for them to find stable employment. Furthermore, felony charges can limit available housing, a person's right to own weapons and a person's right to vote.
As in every case, this man will need to prepare a criminal defense. In felony cases, several defense strategies are available. There are defenses that can help show that no crime took place. On the other hand, there are constitutional defenses that can help eliminate evidence from court. The best defense for each situation should be based on the particular facts in the case.
Source: Daily News, "Oregon man charged with using his dreadlocks to choke girlfriend," Adam Edelman, Jan. 8, 2013
No Comments
Leave a comment