Being accused of a violent crime is an incredibly stressful event. American society takes violent crime very seriously, and rightfully so. When someone faces this type of accusation, it can feel overwhelming, and many are unsure where to begin in fighting the charges. One Ohio man is currently experiencing this scenario, as he prepares to address a range of serious felony charges.
Following a recent incident that took place in Willoughby Hills, the 35-year-old man is charged with felonious assault, which is considered a second degree felony. The suspect is being accused of hitting another person in the head, legs, face, and arms with punches and kicks. The incident occurred in mid-October, and no details have been released involving what relationship, if any, the man had with the alleged victim. If convicted on these charges, serious punishment could result, including time in prison.
The man was also charged with a variety of other crimes. One of the other charges was domestic violence, which is a first-degree misdemeanor. A third charge was abduction, which is considered a third-degree felony. There is no mention of how the alleged crimes came to take place, or whether the acts are alleged to have involved more than one individual. The judge set the man’s bond at $25,000 cash or surety. As of the time of this report his bail was not posted.
The man accused of these crimes faces up to 11 years in prison if he is convicted of both felony charges. The American legal system affords him the right to be presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. However, in reality, a great deal of damage has already been done as his name and the details of the accusations against him are reported throughout the Ohio area. Even if he is able to successfully defend against these charges in a court of law, a not guilty verdict or the dismissal of charges rarely receives the same level of media coverage, leaving irreparable harm to his reputation within the community.
Source: The News-Herald, “Cleveland man accused of felonious assault in Willoughby Hills,” Nov. 14, 2012