Jonathan Perkins, 28, was sentenced today by the Honorable Judge Melinda Reed to nine years state prison for assaulting his pregnant girlfriend and threatening to kill her. On April 6, 2012, a jury found Perkins guilty of making criminal threats, assault and domestic battery.

On September 24, 2011, the defendant approached the victim’s car to discuss seeing their son. In the vehicle were the victim and four minors ranging in age from under one to 16 years old. A dispute arose when the defendant demanded that the victim come to his home with their son. When the victim refused, he struck her in the neck and threatened to kill her if she did not do as he demanded. When she agreed, he let her go because he believed she was going to his house; instead, she contacted law enforcement.

The defendant’s prior criminal record included a strike prior for 1st degree residential burglary in 2004 and several previous misdemeanor convictions for domestic violence.

The case was investigated by VPD Officer Jay Stephens and prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney Trevor Holly.

Media inquiries can be directed to the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office, Assistant District Attorney
Shani D. Jenkins (559) 636-5494.