According to domestic violence group, strangulation or choking frequently precedes homicide but is rarely prosecuted. In an effort to change this, Virginia joins a growing number of states to make strangulation a felony offense.

HB752/ SB459 was signed into law by Governor Bob McDonnell a few weeks ago. The law makes strangulation a Class 6 Felony charge, carrying a potential 5 year prison sentence and fines reaching $2,500. [Read more…]