District Attorney Erik Johnson announced Thursday that Derrick Ray Caldwell, 46, of Seminole, entered a plea prior to trial for Assault and Battery by Means Likely to Produce Death and Violation of a Protective Order.

The plea stems from an incident that occurred on July 9, 2024, during which Caldwell strangled the victim with such force that the victim was hospitalized with two fractured vertebrae and a fracture of her hyoid bone. The victim is among a very small percentage of individuals who survive such injuries.

On Jan. 27, the court sentenced Caldwell to 25 years in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, with 10 years to be served in custody, followed by 15 years of supervised release.

Johnson commended the work of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Seminole Police Department, the Holdenville Police Department, and the Sac and Fox Nation Lighthorse for their diligent investigation of this case.

“I am incredibly proud of the collaboration and dedication demonstrated by our law enforcement partners, community resource partners, Assistant District Attorney Chris Hauger, and my staff at the Seminole District Attorney’s Office in bringing this case to a successful resolution. Their hard work reflects our shared commitment to justice and public safety. I would like to especially recognize the work of the Seminole Family Resource Center for its dedication and perseverance displayed for the victim in this case,” Jonson said.

“The victim’s willingness to stand up and confront the defendant was fundamental to this case, and we hope her actions serve as inspiration to all victims of domestic violence,” said Assistant District Attorney Chris Hauger, who was the prosecutor assigned to the case.

“If you are a victim of domestic violence and need help, please know you are not alone. Assistance is available through our office and our trusted community partners. We encourage anyone in need to reach out to the available resources for support and guidance,” Johnson added.

In Seminole County, domestic violence victims can call the Family Resource Center hotline at 800-373-5609.

Know the signs of domestic violence (Mayo Clinic) You might be experienc- ing domestic violence if your partner: Calls you names, insults you or puts you down.

Often acts jealous or possessive.

Tries to control how you spend money or your access to money.

Tracks where you go, what you do online or who you talk to on the phone. Prevents you from going to work or school.

Stops you from seeing family members or friends.

Threatens to keep you from seeing your children.

Gets angry or abusive when drinking alcohol or using drugs.

Tries to control whether you can see a healthcare professional.

Threatens you, your children or your pets with violence or a weapon. Hits, kicks, shoves, slaps, chokes or otherwise hurts you, your children or your pets.

Forces you to have sex or engage in sexual acts against your will.

Controls your birth control or demands that you get pregnant.

Blames you for problems in the relationship or violent behavior, or tells you that you deserve it.

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