A former Steelers player and current Kansas City Chefs defensive lineman was jailed in Alabama after a judge revoked his bond following his felony arrest for burglary and domestic violence. Tuscaloosa police charged Isaiah Buggs with second-degree burglary/domestic violence for allegedly breaking into the apartment of the mother of his child with a tire iron and dragging her down the stairs, according to news reports. Tuscaloosa County District Court Judge Joanne Jannik's decision to revoke Buggs's bond comes amid several pending charges against the lineman, including two counts of second-degree animal cruelty. Felony domestic violence charges are a serious matter. If you're facing felony charges, you need a strong defense attorney fighting for the best outcome in your case. Contact the Criminal Defense Team at LLF Law Firm today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form, and let us fight for you.

What Is Domestic Violence in Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania Protection from Abuse Act outlines domestic violence as acts occurring between "family or household members, sexual or intimate partners or persons who share biological parenthood." These acts may include:

• Intentional or reckless actions causing bodily harm, severe injury, rape, forced intercourse, or sexual assault (with or without weapons)
• Creating an atmosphere of fear through threats or stalking
• False imprisonment
• Physical or sexual abuse of minors

Criminal Charges Related to Domestic Violence

While Pennsylvania law doesn't have a specific "domestic violence" charge, these cases are typically prosecuted as misdemeanor or felony violent offenses. Common charges include:

• Simple or aggravated assault
• Stalking
• Recklessly endangering another person
• Strangulation

A conviction of a misdemeanor domestic violence offense carries a maximum 1-5-year sentence and a $2,500-$10,000 maximum fine. Felony offenses are much more serious, with a maximum of 7-20 years incarceration and a $15,000-$25,000 fine.

Potential Defenses in Domestic Violence Cases

When facing domestic violence charges in Pennsylvania, several legal defenses may be applicable. At LLF Law Firm, we carefully evaluate each case to determine the most effective strategy. Some common defenses include:

Self-Defense

This defense may apply when:

• The accused was not the initial aggressor
• There was a reasonable fear of serious injury
• No safe means of retreat were available

In some cases, this defense can also extend to protecting a third party.

Lack of Intent

Some charges, like simple assault, require proof of intentional or reckless behavior. We may argue that the alleged act was accidental or unintentional.

Challenging the Severity of Injury

Pennsylvania law distinguishes between "bodily injury" and "serious bodily injury." We may contest the prosecution's characterization of injuries, potentially reducing the severity of charges.

• Bodily injury: "Impairment of physical condition or substantial pain"
• Serious bodily injury: "Substantial risk of death," permanent disfigurement, or loss of bodily function

Additional Strategies

Depending on the specifics of your case, we may:

• Challenge the accuser's credibility
• Identify inconsistencies in evidence
• Negotiate for reduced charges

How LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team Can Build a Strong Defense for You

The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team understands the nuances of domestic violence cases. We work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome in your case. Contact us today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form for a confidential consultation and personalized defense strategy.