Newark, New Jersey — A man has been convicted for a brutal attack on his pregnant wife, marking a significant case in the ongoing struggle against domestic violence. Milton Chogllo, 31, was found guilty on Wednesday of second-degree aggravated assault by strangulation and third-degree aggravated assault after a week-long trial that highlighted the severity of his actions.
The incident took place on March 5, 2021, when Chogllo assaulted his wife outside their residence on Bergen Street. At the time of the attack, the victim was six months pregnant. The couple’s 14-year-old daughter witnessed the violence and provided crucial testimony, underscoring the incident’s immediate impact on their family dynamics.
Following the trial, Chogllo is scheduled to be sentenced on July 18, a day that will mark a significant moment for the victim and her family. Domestic violence experts emphasize the danger posed by individuals who strangle their partners, noting that such actions are often precursors to more severe violence or even homicide.
Assistant Prosecutor Jenna Ventola spoke to the importance of delivering justice for victims, stating that the legal system must convey a clear message that domestic abuse is unacceptable. Her colleague, Assistant Prosecutor Mattison Monteleone, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the necessity for victims to be heard and supported throughout the judicial process.
This case comes amid growing public awareness of domestic violence, as several high-profile incidents have garnered attention across the state. Recently, John “JP” Linnington was sentenced to eight years in prison for attempting to murder his pregnant fiancée in Cape May, after he pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including strangulation.
Similarly, Kareem Hall, a 28-year-old Atlantic City resident, pleaded guilty to strangling and threatening his girlfriend in a separate incident this March, with a proposed sentence of three years. Such cases underscore the pressing need for community and judicial responses to domestic violence.
As New Jersey continues to grapple with the epidemic of domestic abuse, advocates are calling for enhanced resources and support systems for survivors. The legal outcomes in these cases not only serve to punish offenders but also aim to protect and empower victims, fostering a social environment where abuse is not tolerated.
With Chogllo’s upcoming sentencing, the hope remains that justice will serve as a deterrent for other potential perpetrators and bring solace to those affected by domestic violence.