The Oklahoma House Judiciary – Criminal Committee passed Senate Bill 1211 on Wednesday, which strengthens penalties for strangulation offenses.
Currently someone convicted of assault and battery by strangulation could serve a maximum of three years. SB 1211 raises the maximum sentence to ten years. It also includes a fine of up to $20,000 for the first offense.
Representative John George is the bill’s House author.
“Increasing the penalty for strangulation against intimate partners is a significant step forward in our efforts to combat domestic violence and ensure the safety of survivors,” George said. “Senate Bill 1211 reaffirms our commitment to providing greater protection to victims and sends a clear message that such violence will not go unpunished.”
