A Crystal Lake man has been sentenced to more than three years in prison for an attack where he strangled his wife until she lost consciousness and struck her in the head.
Thomas G. Watts, 39, of the 4000 block of Burton Trail in Crystal Lake, was charged in January 2021 with aggravated domestic battery, four counts of domestic battery and criminal damage to property over $500.
A criminal complaint filed in McHenry County Circuit Court said that Watts knelt on top of his wife and held her on the floor of their bedroom on January 10, 2021.
Watts wrapped both of his hands around her neck and strangled her until she lost consciousness, the complaint said.
Watts also struck the woman in the head with a glass mason jar, causing cuts and bruises to her head and face.
He also caused more than $500 in damage to their home by damaging doors and walls.
Prosecutors said a family member of the victim reported the attack to police because the victim was reluctant to report it.
Watts entered into a negotiated plea deal with the McHenry County State’s Attorney’s Office on Wednesday.
Court records show he pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony, in exchange for prosecutors dismissing his other charges.
McHenry County Judge Robert Wilbrandt sentenced Watts to three years and six months in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
His sentence will be served at 85% based on truth-in-sentencing guidelines.
“In severe cases of domestic violence where the perpetrator is using violence and fear for purposes of power and control over the victim, we will continue to seek IDOC sentences,” McHenry County State’s Attorney Patrick Kenneally said.
“Domestic battery is an intolerable problem we must face as a community. A community from which victims can draw the strength, empathy, and resources needed to stop the abuse and move on past its devastating emotional effects,” Kenneally said.