Senate bill to increase criminal punishment for strangulation approved by House

OKLAHOMA CITY- Senate Bill 1211 was approved by the House of Representatives Monday. The legislation authored by Sen. Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, increases the maximum time of imprisonment for strangulation offenses from three years to 10 years.

“The statistics related to strangulation are incredibly alarming, and this form of violence is often a precursor to more severe or even fatal forms of abuse,” Thompson said. “Strangulation should never be tolerated and increasing the punishment for this crime will not only send a strong message to abusers but will also keep these offenders behind bars for up to a decade, offering protection for victims of this abhorrent crime.” 

One in four women will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime. Strangulation victims are 750% more likely to be killed by their abuser and are at higher risk of suicidal ideation.

There are currently more than 300 offenders currently serving time for domestic abuse by strangulation in Oklahoma.

Thompson’s bill also provides that offenders can be fined up to $20,000 for their first offense. Previously, the fine could only be imposed after a subsequent offense.

Rep. John George, R-Newalla, carried the measure in the House of Representatives. Upon being signed into law, the provisions of SB 1211 will take effect Nov. 1.

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For more information, contact:

Sen. Kristen Thompson at 405-521-5592 or Kristen.Thompson@oksenate.gov