On January 25, 2024, a Carroll County jury convicted Kenneth Lee Phillips, 43, of Carrollton, of Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Assault – Family Violence, and Battery – Family Violence for strangling and beating a woman who was then his girlfriend. Superior Court Judge Dennis Blackmon sentenced Phillips to 40 years in prison without the possibility of parole. The Defendant was sentenced without parole because of his substantial criminal history, which includes over 30 arrests since 1998 and 5 prior felony convictions.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Matthew Moore and Caley McDonald, along with DA Investigator Shannon Bramblett. Sergeant Christopher with the Carrollton Police Department led the investigation, which uncovered disturbing details of the incident.
On March 5, 2021, officers from the Carrollton Police Department responded to a distress call at Bankhead Beverage on Bankhead Highway in Carrollton. The call reported a man beating a woman. Although the Defendant had fled the scene by the time officers arrived, they were able to meet with the victim, who had visible injuries and dried blood on her arms. Surveillance video from the store provided crucial evidence, showing the Defendant assaulting the victim by putting her in a chokehold, beating her, and body slamming her to the pavement.
Later that day, the Carroll County Sheriff's Office located the Defendant in Carroll County and informed the Carrollton Police Department. When questioned by law enforcement, the Defendant denied any wrongdoing and instead blamed the victim. Based on the evidence gathered at the scene, the Carrollton Police Department arrested the Defendant.
During the trial, the State presented the surveillance video as well as evidence of prior instances of abuse committed by the Defendant against the same victim. Despite the Defendant choosing to represent himself, the victim bravely took the stand and testified, facing her abuser and enduring his personal cross-examination.
In response to the jury's verdict, one of the jurors stated, "With its verdict, this juror has made clear that the people of Carroll County will not tolerate domestic violence." The juror emphasized the importance of holding the Defendant accountable for his repeated violent abuse, his refusal to take responsibility, and his extensive criminal history. As a result, the Defendant will spend the next 40 years in prison without the possibility of parole.
This case serves as a reminder of the dedication and hard work of law enforcement and prosecutors in combating domestic violence. The Carroll County community stands united in its commitment to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.