Recent Oklahoma Domestic Violence Case Breaks Stereotype

Oklahoma domestic violence rates are often startling.was tried federally.  While prosecutors alleged that
The state is continually making headlines for its highKelley had previously abused her husband, there is no
number of child abuse cases, and it ranks 7th in therecord of her ever being reported, arrested, or
nation for women murdered by men.  According tocharged with domestic violence.
a 2002 report by the Oklahoma State Department ofOklahoma domestic violence lawyer
Health, 91% of those seeking emergency medicalThe typical victim of intimate partner violence in
treatment for injuries from intimate partner violenceOklahoma is a woman aged 25-34.  Of the 2,538
were women; only 9% of the injured victimspeople seeking emergency medical treatment for
requiring emergency services were men.injuries caused by Oklahoma intimate partner violence
However, as any law enforcement official orin 2002, only 2 victims were males over the age of
Oklahoma domestic violence lawyer can attest, not65.  Regardless of statistics and stereotypes,
every domestic dispute fits the stereotype orhowever, every case is unique and requires individual
matches the statistics.  One recent domestictreatment by investigators, prosecutors, and defense
violence conviction in Oklahoma proves the exception.attorneys in Oklahoma.  Whenever two people are
On July 22, 2010, a 70-year-old Oklahoma womanin a relationship, emotions can run high.  While
pleaded guilty to beating her 73-year-old husbanddomestic violence is a serious issue, law enforcement
with a cane when she became convinced that heagents and the courts must realize that not all
was having an affair.  According to prosecutors,allegations of abuse are true.  Accusers may amplify
Gussie Mae Kelley "deliberately and maliciously" beator even completely invent incidents of abuse in an
her husband, causing numerous contusions andeffort to gain attention or seek revenge.  When
lacerations requiring stitches.  While Kelley'ssomeone is charged with domestic abuse or intimate
conviction could result in up to ten years in prison,partner violence in Oklahoma, it is imperative to
sentencing guidelines recommend that she servecontact an Oklahoma domestic violence attorney
27-33 months.  Because of the weak condition ofwith a proven record of successful defense.
the victim and the severity of the beating, the case