A divorce proceeding turned ugly last year after a man attacked his wife. Deputies were forced to subdue the man with a stun gun after pulling him off of her. The man has been charged with aggravated battery in the domestic violence case. He has pleaded no-contest to the charge, likely hoping the judge will be lenient during his sentencing hearing.

The 24-year-old woman sustained a broken nose and fractured jaw during the April 2011 attack. She also had to undergo surgery at the Holy Cross Hospital. According to court records, their divorce was finalized three days after the attack. The woman testified that she was afraid of her husband and believes that his behavior shown in front of others indicates that he has no respect or regard for court orders.

When the man faced a Broward judge, he indicated that he understood that he could be sentenced to a maximum of 15 years behind bars in addition to an extra year for an additional misdemeanor charge of resisting arrest. The minimum sentence for charges like these in Florida is about four years and three months. Although it appears that the man is hopeful for a lenient sentence, the State Attorney's Office stated indicated it had made no promises in exchange for the plea deal. The man, however, is hopeful that he will obtain a legal ruling known as a "downward departure" that would allow him to be sentenced to less prison time than required by law.

Being involved in an abusive relationship can be very frightening, and it may seem like there is no way out. However, that is not true. As this case shows, those who perpetrate domestic violence can be held accountable. It may be helpful for those who are concerned that they may be in danger to know that restraining orders can be issued to help protect someone from a violent partner.

Source: Sun Sentinel, "Man pleads no contest to battering wife at divorce hearing in Broward judge's chambers," Rafael A. Olmeda, Feb. 6, 2012