AG Knudsen Challenges Lenient Domestic Violence Plea | Butte News

Montana’s Attorney General Austin Knudsen is sounding the alarm over a controversial plea deal offered to Christopher Wardle, accused of strangling his wife in 2022 — a case now tangled with the unresolved death of his wife, struck by a vehicle Wardle was driving. The proposed deal, signed May 21, would see Wardle plead guilty to minor charges like witness tampering and violating a protection order, while dropping the most serious allegations — including strangulation — and eliminating any jail time. Knudsen calls it “less than a slap on the wrist,” sparking public outrage and his own frustration that he can’t overturn it without judicial intervention. He’s formally demanded transparency from Gallatin County Attorney Audrey Cromwell, requesting detailed records of domestic violence plea deals since early 2022 — a deadline of July 31 — while Cromwell declines to comment publicly due to ongoing proceedings. The case has ignited debate over whether systemic leniency in domestic violence cases is becoming the norm. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a7872e0487489825