Convicted and sentenced for two counts of aggravated domestic violence
On April 8, 2024, Andrew Joseph Richard, 44, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi was convicted and sentenced in the Circuit Court of Jackson County for two counts of Aggravated Domestic Violence.
Judge Keith Miller sentenced Richard to serve a total of fifteen years in the custody of the Mississippi Department of Corrections with an additional five years of reporting post-release supervision following his prison term.
The counts stemmed from two separate incidents in which Richard strangled his victim.
The abuse-survivor offered this advice to anyone going through similar situations: “You are seen. You are believed. There are people and resources who are ready to meet you, your children, and your family where you are. There is help, and there is hope and healing. Please come forward and know that life after abuse is possible.”
District Attorney Angel Myers McIlrath stated, “Coming forward in the face of domestic abuse is incredibly difficult. We are thankful for the survivor in this case—she ended the cycle of abuse by reporting and standing with our office during this prosecution. She, her children, and her entire family bore witness not only to the abuse, but also to the incredible power of hope. I hope that Richard’s conviction helps them all move forward with the healing process.”
Assistant District Attorney Justin Lovorn stated, “If you are a victim of domestic violence, please come forward. As the survivor stated, there are hope and resources out there to help you. Thank you to the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence for helping the survivor in this case and for all your work and dedication to victims of domestic abuse. This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Justin Lovorn.
