Medford Man Pleads Guilty After Violently Strangulating Partner

Earlier today, the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office announced that Leonard Clarence Pullen, born on May 14, 1973, has pled guilty to Strangulation Constituting Domestic Violence. As a result of his guilty plea, he has been sentenced to 42 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections. The charges stem from an incident that occurred in the early hours of July 1, 2022.

The original incident unfolded when law enforcement responded to a call from Wendy Lazaro, who reported being the victim of domestic strangulation and assault outside a residence in the 900 block of Springbrook Court in Medford. Ms. Lazaro, who had been in an on-and-off relationship with Mr. Pullen for several months, had gone to the Springbrook Court residence that morning after receiving a message from him indicating that her property was outside for her to retrieve.

Upon Ms. Lazaro’s arrival with a friend, a confrontation ensued as Mr. Pullen became verbally and physically aggressive towards her friend. When Ms. Lazaro attempted to intervene, Mr. Pullen grabbed her by the throat and lifted her off the ground, causing her to lose the ability to breathe. After gasping for air, Mr. Pullen eventually released his grip. Ms. Lazaro reported experiencing pain in her neck and difficulty swallowing in the following days, with minor redness observed by law enforcement at the time of the report.

Upon his arrest, Mr. Pullen denied any wrongdoing, claiming he was unaware of how Ms. Lazaro had sustained the redness to her neck. However, during the plea and sentencing proceedings earlier this afternoon, Ms. Lazaro was present in the courtroom and insisted that Mr. Pullen plead guilty. He complied with her request, ultimately entering a guilty plea.

Chief Deputy District Attorney Patrick Green, prior to sentencing, commended Ms. Lazaro for her courage in standing up against Mr. Pullen and holding him accountable for his actions.

This case underscores the prevalence of domestic violence in the United States, as highlighted by the Center for Disease Control, which reports that one in three women and one in four men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. It serves as a stark reminder that domestic violence can affect anyone, irrespective of their race, age, sexual orientation, religion, gender, or socioeconomic status.

For those facing domestic violence or seeking assistance, there are resources available within the community. To learn more, visit http://www.community-works.org or contact the HelpLine at (541) 779-4357.

The conviction of Leonard Clarence Pullen serves as a step toward justice and a reminder that survivors of domestic violence are not alone in their fight for safety and support.