Officer Accused of Strangling his Wife in Nebraska

In Omaha, Nebraska, a local police officer was recently accused of strangling his wife. 
The officer, Sean Heyenga, appeared in Douglas County Court on December 18.  He faced several criminal charges, including domestic assault (violence) and making terroristic threats.  After his hearing, he was released on $20,000 bail.  In 2008, Heyenga was sworn in as a police officer.

Heyenga asked for a public defender, but the county was not able to assign him one for his recent hearing.

According to prosecutors, Heyenga came home after drinking on Thursday night.  He then got into a confrontation with his wife, which led to him strangling her and issuing death threats.  Prosecutors say Heyenga strangled his wife until she passed out.

Since the incident, Heyenga has been placed on leave pending a criminal and internal investigation.  He is scheduled to appear in court again on January 12, 2010 for a preliminary hearing.

If you need help with a domestic violence related matter in Nebraska, click here to find a family lawyer near you!