Source: Orange County Register.

On December 4, 2011, Newport Beach police were called to the scene of an alcohol related physical altercation. Raymond Jeffrey Yates, the president of Morningside Recovery (a rehabilitation home in Newport Beach), was arrested and charged with misdemeanor domestic violence and a sentencing enhancement for causing great bodily harm. Last Friday, Yates pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor domestic violence charge and the sentencing enhancement was dismissed. Yates was sentenced to jail, was given three years of probation, was ordered to do community service, and has to pay restitution.

California law makes it illegal to threaten to harm or harm an intimate partner. Sentences depend on the injury caused and the defendant’s criminal record. Someone convicted of domestic violence can be sentenced to prison/jail, probation, be required to do community service, be required to attend anger management classes, and be ordered to pay fines and restitution. A victim of domestic violence may obtain a restraining order against the accused if they are in fear of their safety. If you are charged with domestic violence, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney right away to assist you in fighting your charges and/or reducing your sentence.