Man sent to jail for strangulation.

Nico Cory with his attorney, Al Swanson, Jr.

Man sent to jail for strangulation.

MasonCountyCrime

By Allison Scarbrough, Editor.

LUDINGTON – A 29-year-old Custer man was sentenced in 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, Aug. 6, to serve five months up front of a one-year discretionary jail term for convictions of assault by strangulation and and receiving/concealing stolen property less than $200.

Nico Blaine Cory, of 58 S. Madison, pleaded guilty to the charges, May 7.

Cory was arrested in April following the assault of his wife. One count of domestic violence was dismissed in a plea agreement.

“We had an altercation, and it got a little out of hand,” Cory testified before Judge Susan K. Sniegowski last May. Cory was in possession of a stolen vehicle registration tag at the time of his arrest.

Cory had no prior felonies and one prior misdemeanor of driving while license suspended (DWLS), said Mason County Prosecutor Paul Spaniola. However, he has been in front of the court on several occasions but all matters resulted in a deferral, he added.

“Assault by strangulation cases are very serious cases,” said Spaniola. The offenders are “at extreme risk for much more serious harm being committed to others – to the point of domestic violence involving death.”

The prosecutor said Cory indicates the relationship with his wife is toxic.

“He realizes he has a toxic relationship,” said his attorney Al Swanson, Jr, adding that his client is now “taking steps in the right direction.”

Judge Sniegowski also sentenced Cory to 18 months probation, stressing a condition – he must complete cognitive behavioral therapy.

“It’s important that you recognize it’s your problem and not to blame other people,” Sniegowski said. “Don’t blame the toxic relationship. You’re here because of your own actions.”

Sentencing guidelines in the case are 0-9 months.

Cory received credit for 18 days served in jail.

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