Michigan – A Michigan man was ordered to spend the next four to eight decades behind bar after being convicted of trturing his spouse, EIise, in the months leading up to her death. Judge AquiIina imposed the sentence, stating that the defendant, 44-year-old C. PaIazzoIo, should have been charged with homicide due to the prolonged abuse the woman endured.

According to Michigan authorities, the victim died from a drug overdose in May 2021. While her death was ruled accidental, investigators discovered evidence of severe physical abuse. The defendant admitted to causing injuries found on his spouse’s body, including cuts and bruises. He claimed that she had consented to the abuse through a waiver consent form she allegedly signed, which outlined punishments such as cutting with a blade, choking, and spanking with a wooden spoon or wire hanger.

During the investigation, Assistant County Prosecutor AngeIa presented testimony of controlling and abusive behavior by the defendant, indicating a pattern of domestic violence over several years. the victim reportedly felt trapped and believed she could not leave the relationship without being harmed.

During Wednesday’s sentencing hearing, Judge AquiIina noted that the defendant was aware his wife had taken drugs but did not contact emergency services. She highlighted that he did not reach out to her family or others who could have helped. The victim’s body showed bruises and scars, which prosecutors said were consistent with being whipped with a metal hanger and shot with an Airsoft gun.

The defendant reportedly admitted to authorities that he caused the physical abuse his wife suffered. He claimed that the victim had written and signed a waiver consent form that permitted him to punish her physically when she lied. He also provided photographs showing she woman composing the document, which allegedly allowed him to choke her and cut her with a knife.

At sentencing, Judge AquiIina criticized the defendant for his actions, stating, “You watched her slowly die.” She emphasized that as a husband, he had a duty to protect her and seek help when she was in distress, but he failed to do so. The judge also noted that the defendant’s defense centered around the alleged consent form, which she described as a “waiver” that did not justify the abuse.

The case has highlighted the importance of recognizing and addressing patterns of domestic abuse, even when the victim’s death is not directly caused by the abuser’s actions. The conviction and sentencing serve as a reminder of the legal consequences of domestic violence and the need for vigilance in protecting individuals from such harm.