Man sent to prison for invading ex-girlfriend’s home and assaulting her.

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Man sent to prison for invading ex-girlfriend’s home and assaulting her.

By Allison Scarbrough, Editor.

LUDINGTON — A 34-year-old Ludington man was sentenced in 51st Circuit Court Tuesday, May 11, to two to 20 years in prison for convictions of first-degree home invasion and third-offense domestic violence.

Richard Massey Thomas, of 410 Washington Ave., was arrested Feb. 18 by the Ludington Police Department after barging into his ex-girlfriend’s home, damaging her door and assaulting her.

He received a concurrent term of 13 months to five years for the domestic violence conviction. 

Thomas was drunk at the time of the incident, said Mason County Prosecutor Lauren Kreinbrink. The victim had allowed him to stay in her home, but no longer wanted him there, Kreinbrink added.

“There was a domestic relationship between the parties, but it was not in existence at the time of the offense,” said Judge Susan K. Sniegowski.

Thomas was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $265 for damaging the door. He received credit for 82 days served in the Mason County Jail.

Sentencing guidelines for the home invasion conviction are 24-40 months and 0-11 months for the third-offense domestic violence conviction.

Thomas’ attorney Becky Lederer requested that her client be placed in Special Alternative Incarceration (SAI) or “boot camp.” Judge Sniegowski said she will not object to SAI after he serves one year in prison per the prosecution’s recommendation.

The situation escalated when his ex refused to let him back in the house, said Kreinbrink. In addition to the damaged door, the victim suffered bruising, pain and ruined clothing. 

“The victim repeatedly attempted to call 911, and he attempted to prevent her from doing it,” said the prosecutor. When police arrived, he was sitting in front of the TV drinking a beer. 

“I have come terms with this reality,” said the victim. “And in this reality, Rick, you don’t value my words. And I can’t think of anything else I can say that I’ve been trying to tell you for the past four years. All I want for you to do is just to get help and grow.”

Thomas has a “major problem with alcohol,” said his attorney, and needs substance abuse treatment in a long-term program. 

Thomas appeared via Zoom video conferencing from the jail due to COVID-19.

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