Domestic violence in Oklahoma is a continuing problem. Each year, the state ranks among the nation's highest in the number of women killed by men. As recently as 2008, Oklahoma was ranked fourth in this nefarious distinction.

Two recent criminal cases place attention on the problem of domestic violence and violent crimes in Oklahoma. Last Friday morning, 40-year-old Ava King was found bleeding in an alley. She was taken to a hospital where she succumbed to her injuries shortly thereafter. Later that day, Benjamin Joel Andre Littlesun, 22, was arrested in connection with her death.

According to court records, Littlesun told investigators that he met King at a bar and that they went to his truck to continue drinking. He claims that after a sexual encounter, King left the pickup and went into an alley. Littlesun says he followed the woman to offer her a ride home, but she spit in his face and slapped him.

The man admitted to authorities that he severely beat King, stomping her and kicking her in the face and head at least 20 times. In an unrelated incident, an Altus woman is in critical condition with severe injuries to her face and head after allegedly being beaten by her husband.

Sandy George, 43, was taken to OU Medical Center with injuries including a broken jaw and fractured skull. Her husband, Jerry Blaine George, also 43, was arrested and jailed on $250,000 bond.

Oklahoma domestic violence may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, with legal penalties including up to four years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Penalties may be enhanced if the victim is pregnant at the time of assault or if the assault is conducted in the presence of children.

Additional criminal charges may be filed depending on the severity of the crime. For example, if the victim dies of her injuries, the perpetrator will be charged with homicide. In an effort to minimize Oklahoma's dubious distinction of being one of the top states for domestic violence and violence against women, district attorneys vigorously prosecute these crimes.

For those accused, finding an experienced Oklahoma domestic violence lawyer should be top priority. A criminal defense attorney is the first step in protecting one's rights, including the right to avoid unreasonable search and seizure and the right to a fair trial. For more information, contact our Oklahoma City violent crime lawyers..