When one person intentionally injures another, they may face criminal charges. Incidents that involve strangers at public locations could lead to assault charges. So could altercations between romantic partners or family members. While assaults involving strangers can be severe, the personal nature of certain relationships can also lead to unexpectedly aggressive conduct.
When an assault involves people who know each other, the potential exists for the situation to escalate rapidly. One person might strangle the other in a burst of intense anger. Strangulation involves the application of manual force to restrict the airways.
How can an allegation of strangulation influence assault charges in Maryland?
Strangulation increases the charges
There are certain circumstances in which the state can pursue more serious assault charges against defendants. The use of a dangerous weapon is one reason for more serious assault charges and penalties.
Strangulation can also lead to more serious charges. Strangulation puts people at risk of strokes and other permanent injuries. Even when the intention isn’t to kill, the risk of the other person dying is there. Strangulation incidents are also indicative of escalating domestic violence risks.
The state can treat cases involving strangulation as first-degree assault, which is a felony. The maximum penalty possible is up to 25 years in prison. People accused of an assault involving strangulation are at risk of a criminal record that could diminish their opportunities and criminal penalties that could change the course of their lives.
Discussing pending allegations with an experienced criminal defense attorney can help people fight back against felony first-degree assault charges. Strangulation allegations and other complicating factors may render a nuanced approach to criminal defense necessary.