Recent Oklahoma Domestic Violence Case Breaks Stereotype

Oklahoma domestic violence rates are often startling. The state is continually making headlines for its high number of child abuse cases, and it ranks 7th in the nation for women murdered by men.  According to a 2002 report by the Oklahoma State Department of Health, 91% of those seeking emergency medical treatment for injuries from intimate partner violence were women; only 9% of the injured victims requiring emergency services were men.

However, as any law enforcement official or Oklahoma domestic violence lawyer can attest, not every domestic dispute fits the stereotype or matches the statistics.  One recent domestic violence conviction in Oklahoma proves the exception.

On July 22, 2010, a 70-year-old Oklahoma woman pleaded guilty to beating her 73-year-old husband with a cane when she became convinced that he was having an affair.  According to prosecutors, Gussie Mae Kelley “deliberately and maliciously” beat her husband, causing numerous contusions and lacerations requiring stitches.  While Kelley’s conviction could result in up to ten years in prison, sentencing guidelines recommend that she serve 27-33 months.  Because of the weak condition of the victim and the severity of the beating, the case was tried federally.  While prosecutors alleged that Kelley had previously abused her husband, there is no record of her ever being reported, arrested, or charged with domestic violence.

The typical victim of intimate partner violence in Oklahoma is a woman aged 25-34.  Of the 2,538 people seeking emergency medical treatment for injuries caused by Oklahoma intimate partner violence in 2002, only 2 victims were males over the age of 65.  Regardless of statistics and stereotypes, however, every case is unique and requires individual treatment by investigators, prosecutors, and defense attorneys in Oklahoma.  Whenever two people are in a relationship, emotions can run high.  While domestic violence is a serious issue, law enforcement agents and the courts must realize that not all allegations of abuse are true.  Accusers may amplify or even completely invent incidents of abuse in an effort to gain attention or seek revenge.  When someone is charged with domestic abuse or intimate partner violence in Oklahoma, it is imperative to contact an Oklahoma domestic violence attorney with a proven record of successful defense.

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