Ludington man sent to prison for strangulation

Joseph Chamness with his attorney, David Glancy.

By Allison Scarbrough. Contributing Editor.

LUDINGTON — A 38-year-old Ludington man was sentenced to two to 20 years in prison in 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, Nov. 17, for a conviction of assault by strangulation.

Joseph Otto Chamness was arrested last December by the Ludington Police Department for a 10-year felony of assault by strangulation and second-offense domestic violence. In exchange for his plea to the strangulation charge, the second count was dismissed.

Chamness was on probation for assault by strangulation at the time he committed the offense, said Mason County Prosecutor Paul Spaniola. “This is the second time he’s been in front of Your Honor this year for the same offense,” Spaniola said to Judge Susan K. Sniegowski.

“My client has a history of mental health issues,” said Chamness’ attorney David Glancy. Chamness has not received the mental health services he needs and hopefully he gets those services in prison, Glancy said. Sniegowski urged Chamness to take advantage of mental health treatment while in prison.

Chamness received credit for 57 days served in jail. His prison term runs concurrently to a two to 10 year prison term for probation violation, with credit for 249 days served in jail. His probation was revoked.