Butte County, CA – A California man has been sentenced to prison after violently attacking the mother of his child, authorities reported this week. The sentencing followed a series of disturbing incidents in which the 28-year-old defendant ignored a restraining order and inflicted severe injuries on the victim.
Incident Overview
Nathan James Sumpter, 28, was sentenced on Thursday to two years and eight months in state prison, the Butte County District Attorney’s Office announced.
Sumpter previously pleaded no contest to felony charges of assault likely to cause great bodily injury and dissuading a witness, as well as a misdemeanor for violating a previous restraining order.
Timeline of the Attack
The attack occurred on July 8, when Sumpter went to the home of his child’s mother despite an active restraining order barring him from doing so.
Authorities said law enforcement officers initially responded to the residence, but Sumpter hid inside the home, threatening the victim and her family if she reported his presence. Officers left the scene, leaving Sumpter inside the residence.
That evening, Sumpter punched the victim in the face and strangled her, according to the DA’s office.
The following morning, the assault escalated. Sumpter strangled the victim to the point of unconsciousness and stomped on her face in front of their two-year-old child.
Victim’s Condition and Response
The woman was severely injured and remained unresponsive, prompting Sumpter to call her aunt out of panic. Law enforcement was dispatched, and the victim was transported to a nearby hospital where she received treatment for a fractured eye socket.
Sumpter had fled the home before officers arrived and was subsequently arrested.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Butte County District Attorney Mike Ramsey emphasized the gravity of the case, noting that while Sumpter’s defense attorney requested probation, the prosecution pushed for a state prison term due to the egregious nature of the domestic violence.
Ramsey highlighted the insidious nature of domestic abuse, saying,
“Domestic violence occurs out of sight behind closed doors and has negative effects on families and the community at large.”
Community and Safety Context
Authorities remind residents that restraining orders are legal protections and violations can lead to serious criminal consequences. The case underscores the importance of reporting domestic violence and seeking help immediately to prevent further harm.
Takeaway: This sentencing demonstrates the legal system’s response to serious domestic violence, particularly when children are present. Victims of domestic abuse are urged to contact local law enforcement or domestic violence hotlines if they are in danger.
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