By: Richard L. Smith
A Newark man has been convicted in connection with a violent 2024 domestic assault involving his girlfriend, according to Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II.
Kevin Simms, 43, was found guilty of second-degree aggravated assault for strangulation of a victim of domestic violence, along with a disorderly persons offense of harassment.
The verdict was returned on March 23, 2026, following a three-day trial before the Honorable Patrick Arre.
Assistant Prosecutors Mattison Monteleone and Marco Collemi prosecuted the case.
According to testimony presented at trial, the incident occurred on February 27, 2024, inside a residence shared by the defendant, the victim, and a roommate.
Authorities said Simms punched the victim in the face before dragging her off a bed and restraining her in a bear hug.
The altercation escalated into a struggle until a roommate intervened.
Prosecutors said the victim later attempted to gather her belongings and leave after calling 911.
At that point, Simms allegedly grabbed her from behind, placed her in a chokehold, and strangled her until she lost consciousness.
The victim was transported to University Hospital for treatment.
Following the verdict, prosecutors said the outcome underscores that domestic violence will not be tolerated and praised the victim for her courage in coming forward.
Simms is scheduled to be sentenced on May 5, 2026, and faces a potential prison term of five to ten years.