Domestic violence conviction nets 15-year prison term for Jonesboro man

A Jonesboro man charged with multiple felonies following a March 7 incident at the north Fayette County residence of his ex-girlfriend entered a guilty plea on Oct. 25 was sentenced to 20 years.

District Attorney Marie Broder said Montrell Towns, 26, entered a guilty plea on Oct. 25 after a jury had been selected and heard testimony from three of the state’s witnesses.

The guilty plea before Fayette County Superior Court Judge Scott Ballard included the charges of burglary, aggravated assault, aggravated stalking, false imprisonment and battery. Towns was sentenced to 20 years, with 15 years to serve in custody, said Broder.  

“This case stems from Montrell Towns forcibly entering the victim’s home after he was previously ordered not to have any contact with the victim, his former girlfriend. While inside the home, Towns grabbed the victim by the neck multiple times and held her against her will. 

“Once the victim was able to flee the home, she was saved by two brave neighbors as they were leaving their home and heard her screams. They allowed her to enter their vehicle as the defendant continued to chase her. The defendant attempted to pull the victim from the neighbor’s vehicle and begged them not to call 911. He eventually fled the scene but was later apprehended and held in the Fayette County jail without bond while awaiting trial,” Broder said.

Broder said the state was represented by Assistant District Attorney Monique Harris and the case was investigated by the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office.  

“We will always support victims of domestic violence and will continue to do everything we can to bring them justice. I am particularly proud of the victim’s neighbors who stood up for her and risked their lives to assure her safety.”  ADA Harris stated.  

“I am proud of Monique and her team.” Broder continued. “She is absolutely right. In my judicial circuit, we stand up against those who perpetrate domestic violence. How appropriate that this case was handled during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. If you see something, say something. Let’s all work to end domestic violence.”