LAWRENCE, Kan. – A jury in Douglas County found 32-year-old Austin W. Kidder guilty of aggravated domestic battery for strangling a woman in the area, according to District Attorney Suzanne Valdez. The incident, which took place on or about August 16, 2022, involved a 33-year-old Lawrence woman who had been in a dating relationship with Kidder.
In addition to the aggravated domestic battery conviction, Kidder was also convicted of criminal damage to property for damaging the woman’s mobile phone. District Attorney Valdez praised the survivor for reporting the crime and seeking justice, emphasizing the importance of community responsibility in ensuring safety for all.
Kidder’s sentencing is scheduled for March 29, where he faces between 11 and 34 months in the Kansas Department of Corrections for the aggravated domestic battery conviction, and up to six months in the county jail for the criminal damage to property conviction. The severity of the charges highlights the gravity of the situation and the impact of domestic violence on victims.
The guilty verdict serves as a reminder of the legal consequences perpetrators of domestic violence can face. It also underscores the courage it takes for survivors to come forward and seek justice. District Attorney Valdez’s acknowledgment of the community’s role in meeting the challenge of ensuring safety reflects the collective effort needed to address and prevent domestic violence.
The outcome of the trial brings attention to the ongoing issue of domestic violence in communities and the importance of holding abusers accountable for their actions. It also sends a message of support to survivors, encouraging them to seek help and pursue legal action. The scheduled sentencing will provide closure for the survivor and send a broader message about the serious repercussions of domestic violence.