Stephen Duane Woods Jr., a repeat domestic abuser, sentenced to 78 months in prison for illegal firearm possession, highlighting the state’s fight against domestic violence.
Convicted Felon with History of Abuse Sentenced for Firearm Offense
In a case underscoring federal efforts to protect victims of domestic violence, Stephen Duane Woods Jr., 40, of Kalamazoo, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison on charges of illegal firearm possession. Woods, a convicted felon with a documented history of violence against women, was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan as part of broader initiatives to target domestic abusers with access to firearms.
According to court records, the most recent incident occurred in September 2023, when Woods assaulted his girlfriend, beating her to the ground and threatening her life with a loaded pistol pressed to her chest. He later fled the scene, hiding the weapon, but was apprehended after resisting arrest. His extensive criminal background includes numerous convictions for violence against women dating back two decades, as well as a history of assaulting law enforcement.
U.S. Attorney Mark Totten emphasized the gravity of the case, stating, “Woods’s criminal record shows a pattern of violence against women and blatant disregard for the law. For a victim of domestic violence, an abuser’s access to a firearm can mean the difference between life and death. We will continue to protect survivors by prosecuting abusers who have no right to touch a gun.”
A Long Trail of Violence and Law Defiance
Woods’s criminal history is marked by repeated acts of domestic abuse, including convictions in 2004 and 2005 for assaults on women. He has also displayed violent behavior towards police, resisting arrest multiple times over the years. In one notable 2010 incident, Woods bit an officer during an altercation, leaving a clear bite mark. This pattern of behavior has earned him a reputation as a dangerous, habitual offender, prompting federal authorities to act.
Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir remarked, “Mr. Woods will have a significant amount of free time to reflect on his consistent pattern of abusive relationships with women, and perhaps arrive at a place where he values them. Our community and his family are safer today with Woods in prison.”
Broader Context of Firearms and Domestic Violence in Michigan
Woods’s case is part of a larger campaign to combat domestic violence across the state. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in three women in the United States has experienced some form of physical violence from an intimate partner. When a firearm is present, the risk of fatality increases fivefold. This stark reality has driven federal prosecutors to pursue stricter enforcement of gun laws against known abusers.
In recent years, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan has targeted similar cases. Notable examples include a Muskegon man sentenced to 15 years for stalking and illegal firearm possession and multiple offenders convicted under local initiatives aimed at reducing violent crime.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the initiative under which Woods’s case was prosecuted, unites federal, state, and local agencies to address violent crime through strategic enforcement and community engagement. The goal remains clear: prevent firearms access for those with violent pasts and protect potential victims.
Continued Efforts to Protect Vulnerable Communities
Law enforcement agencies and advocacy groups stress the importance of community vigilance and victim support. Individuals facing immediate threats are urged to contact 911, while national hotlines, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, offer round-the-clock support.
Find More Interesting Feature Stories From ThumbWind Publications
Michigan Stories
Unveiling the people, places, and events that make the Great Lake State unique, we’ll explore hidden gems and must-do activities.
Weird Political News
A sarcastic and insightful take on official news released by government sources, Political Action Committees, and Public Officials from all over the US. All stories are true and sourced.
ThumbWind News
News and events of Michigan’s Upper Thumb that are worth knowing in the region.
Your Turn – Like This, or Hate it – We Want To Hear From You
Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. Idiotic, profane, or threatening comments are eliminated without remorse. Consider sharing this story. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your Newsbreak feed from ThumbWind Publications.
