Macon man who assaulted girlfriend and threatened to kill children sentenced
A Macon man will serve a three-year sentence after admitting to physically assaulting his girlfriend and threatening to shoot their children on Christmas Eve 2022, according to the Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office in a news release Friday.
Tommy Galloway entered a non-negotiated plea on Tuesday to charges related to an incident on Dec. 24, 2022, where he, after returning home “intoxicated and armed, assaulted his girlfriend to prevent her from calling 911 and pointed a firearm at a 14-year-old child who sought help from law enforcement,” prosecutors said.
Galloway pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated assault, family violence; one count of cruelty to children in the first degree; one count of possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony; two counts of terroristic threats; one count of hindering an emergency telephone call; one count of battery, family violence; four counts of cruelty to children in the third degree; and one count of criminal trespass, prosecutors said.
A judge sentenced Galloway to three years in prison, followed by 22 years of probation, despite prosecutors arguing for 25 years in prison followed by 20 years of probation.
“Domestic violence cases are among the most challenging we prosecute because victims often become uncooperative due to love, fear, or financial constraints,” said District Attorney Anita Howard. “But we remain committed to seeking justice, especially when children are involved. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please reach out to family, friends, or local resources for help.”
“You are not alone, and there are people and organizations ready to support you in breaking free from abuse,” she said.
What happened?
Galloway’s family was expecting a fun evening, wearing matching Christmas pajamas, that Christmas Eve, until Galloway arrived drunk and armed with a handgun. He was asked to leave, but he physically assaulted his girlfriend for calling 911.
A 14-year-old called for help, but Galloway became enraged and threatened to beat and kill the children by shooting them, according to prosecutors.
“Deputies responded but were initially unable to enter due to a security door,” prosecutors said. “A deputy’s body-worn camera captured the threats.”
