Career criminal sentenced to prison for domestic violence

PLATTSBURGH | A career criminal is returning to prison for a violent domestic assault and subsequently violating an order of protection relating to the case. On Friday, the Clinton County District Attorney's Office announced the conviction and sentencing of Shawn Gushlaw, a career criminal for more than 30 years, for two separate domestic violence incidents that occurred in 2025. Authorities said the first incident took place on April 14, 2025, when Gushlaw assaulted the victim during a violent domestic dispute. The arrest stemmed from Gushlaw's possession of a weapon with the intent to use it against the victim, as well as his act of strangling her to the point of unconsciousness. During the attack, Gushlaw armed himself with a weapon and attempted to stab the victim, missing and instead cutting his own hand. When the victim attempted to call 911, Gushlaw threatened that if she sought help, he would take her life as well as the life of any responding law enforcement officer. Authorities said the victim tried to retrieve her phone, but Gushlaw forcibly took it from her and smashed it. He was arrested and charged with attempted second-degree assault, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, second-degree strangulation, first-degree coercion and fourth-degree criminal mischief. Roughly two weeks later, Gushlaw violated an active order of protection by communicating with the protected party. He was subsequently charged with two counts of aggravated family offense and tampering with a witness. Gushlaw appeared before the Honorable Keith M. Bruno and entered guilty pleas to attempted second-degree assault and aggravated family offense. On May 13, Judge Bruno sentenced Gushlaw to consecutive terms of 1.5 to three years in prison on each charge, culminating in an aggregate sentence of three to six years. He was also to ordered to pay various fines, surcharges and fees, and a full stay-away order of protection was issued for the victim. The Clinton County District Attorney's Office emphasized that Gushlaw's decades-long criminal history, escalating violence, and repeated disregard for court orders highlight the necessity of holding persistent offenders fully accountable. The Office reaffirmed its commitment to protecting victims of domestic violence and ensuring community safety through coordinated efforts with law enforcement and victim advocacy partners. Gushlaw was represented by Tucker Stancliff, Esq. Chief Assistant District Attorney Jaime A. Douthat prosecuted the case If you are in a domestic violence situation, contact local law enforcement, a trusted domestic violence advocate, or your nearest crisis support organization for help.

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Career criminal sentenced to prison for domestic violence

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