Coeur d’Alene man charged with attempted strangulation, domestic battery

Ashton E. Newberry, 20, of Coeur d’Alene, was arrested after a Jan. 1 incident in which police say he "slapped and strangled her" during an argument, according to court records. Officers who arrived at the scene observed petechiae "in both her eyes," small hemorrhages that can indicate pressure to the neck, and arrested Newberry at the location.

Court records state the woman told police Newberry pushed her against a wall and grabbed her throat with both hands, squeezing hard enough that she could not breathe and her vision began to go dark. When questioned, Newberry allegedly admitted to pushing the woman and holding her against the wall, telling officers it was "hard for (the woman) to breathe" and that he let her go "due to him understanding what he was doing was wrong," according to the file.

First District Judge Tristan Poorman set bail at $150,000 on Jan. 2. Prosecutors have charged Newberry with attempted strangulation, a felony, and domestic battery in the presence of a child, a misdemeanor. In Idaho, attempted strangulation carries a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison, while domestic battery in the presence of a child can carry up to two years behind bars.

The charges put a spotlight on domestic violence response in Kootenai County and the challenges of protecting victims when incidents occur inside homes and in front of children. A conviction on the domestic battery-in-presence charge would reflect concerns about the trauma that witnesses, especially minors, can experience. The level of bail and the severity of the felony charge indicate prosecutors view the alleged conduct as serious and potentially dangerous to public safety.

Beyond criminal penalties, cases like this touch on community resources, victim safety planning, and ongoing support for families affected by violence. Residents who are worried for their safety or the safety of someone they know can reach Safe Passage 24/7 at 208-664-9303 or by texting 208-449-7228 for immediate help and local guidance.

The takeaway? Domestic incidents can escalate quickly and leave lasting effects on victims and children who see them. If you or someone you know is in danger, call Safe Passage or law enforcement right away — and keep records of injuries, witnesses, and any communications that may be important if you seek protection or file charges. Our two cents? Look out for neighbors, document concerns, and use the local services already standing by to help.