Accomack, VA – A 27-year-old man pleaded guilty Thursday to abduction and strangulation in Accomack Circuit Court in connection with an incident involving the mother of his child in August 2024. Antonio Morales, described by the defense as intoxicated and emotionally distressed, will face a sentence of up to 15 years for the crimes. Morales was initially charged with burglary and two misdemeanors, but those charges were not prosecuted in exchange for his guilty plea. Having no prior criminal record, Morales had lived in the area for approximately two years and required a Spanish interpreter during the court proceedings. The events unfolded after the couple split earlier that day. Morales entered the house they had planned to live in, only to find the woman with another man. After breaking in through a window and confronting the other man, he left at her request. Morales then turned his aggression toward the woman, choking her and preventing her from leaving. A presentence report has been ordered, and Morales’ sentencing is set for July 10.
