Former Somerset County District Attorney Jeffrey Thomas entered a plea of no contest on charges in connection with an assault against his wife that took place while Thomas was actively serving as the DA. Thomas' plead comes on the heels of a recent conviction for assault and false imprisonment of a woman in Windber on an unrelated case. He must also register as a sex offender because of the earlier conviction.

Have you been charged with domestic violence in Somerset County? A domestic violence conviction could cost you your freedom and reputation. Human relationships are complicated, and heated arguments can easily result in domestic violence charges. However, you have the presumption of innocence, and the quality of your defense matters in an emotionally charged case like domestic violence. Call the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or contact us online today.

Former District Attorney Had Previous Criminal Convictions

In the latest case, Thomas plead no contest to two charges of misdemeanor assault against his wife for punching her in the head during an argument. In the eyes of the law, pleading no contest is the same as pleading guilty. However, the fact that Thomas pled guilty to misdemeanor assault would seem to indicate that his plea was part of a negotiated agreement with the Somerset County District Attorney.

Thomas' assault and false imprisonment conviction will carry a two-and-a-half-year to seven-year prison sentence, which he will serve concurrently with two years of probation for the misdemeanor assault against his wife. The two convictions mark a precipitous fall from grace by one of Somerset County's most prominent law enforcement officials. However, it also underscores the county's commitment to treating everyone equally under the law.

Somerset County Authorities Are Committed to Fighting Domestic Violence

Current Somerset County District Attorney Michelle Henry said in a statement regarding the case, “This conviction shows that no one is above the law and domestic violence will not be tolerated. My office will continue to prosecute these difficult cases regardless of who the defendant is.” Considering that Thomas will serve a significant prison term for his convictions and register as a sex offender, it appears DA Henry has backed up her words with action.

Domestic Violence Charges Don't Have to End With Conviction

Domestic violence is widely regarded as a scourge on society. Because of this, people convicted of domestic abuse are often publicly frowned upon for years, paying their debt to society. However, there is a difference between being arrested for domestic violence and being convicted of domestic violence. If you have been charged with this crime, you owe it to yourself to mount the most resolute defense of your reputation possible.

We are committed to the belief that everyone deserves a strong defense against criminal charges. If you trust us with your case, we will passionately advocate for the best possible outcome and defend your rights to the fullest of our abilities. Call the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team at 888-535-3686 or contact us online when you want a lawyer who will stand up and fight for you with determination, skill, and commitment.