Gene Edward Petterway was convicted of Assault Family Violence with a Previous Conviction and also Assault Family Violence – Impeding Breath and sentenced to 10 years in prison on January 15, 2020. The 37-year old Kendleton man was set for a jury trial this week but changed his mind and plead guilty after jury selection. He then accepted 10 years in prison on each charge in an agreement with prosecutors.
According to Assistant District Attorney Lauren Valenti, Petterway’s girlfriend arrived to his home on July 29, 2017. Once she arrived, the defendant did not allow her to leave for approximately five days, subjecting her to multiple beatings and strangulations. Once the woman was finally able to escape, her neighbor brought her to the hospital where she was treated for multiple bruises and abrasions to her face and neck.
“Once the defendant realized that the State would passionately prosecute this case, and that his victim had the courage to stand up to her abuser in court, he understood he wouldn’t be getting away with what he did any longer,” stated Prosecutor Lauren Valenti.
Petterway was prosecuted in the 434th District Court before Presiding Judge James H. Shoemake. Assault Family Violence in both cases were second-degree felonies punishable by 2-20 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000 in each case. The sentences will run concurrently. The defendant was not eligible to receive probation.