Deputies in Washington County say a violent argument on July 2 ended with a pregnant woman in the hospital and her boyfriend in handcuffs. Investigators allege that Nicholas Geary repeatedly struck his pregnant girlfriend, then shot her in the back. Charging records show Geary was later detained on counts that include attempted first-degree murder and domestic assault. According to officials, the sheriff's office pressed ahead with charges out of concern for the woman and her unborn child.
What deputies say
According to KSDK, charging documents describe the woman being struck in the stomach, then shot in the back before she was taken for medical treatment. The documents and a police interview say Geary admitted to firing the shot and told investigators he did so in self-defense, claiming the woman was getting out of his truck and was known to carry knives. The report also notes that the victim told deputies she did not want to press charges.
Charges and legal context
Prosecutors have charged Geary with attempted first-degree murder, domestic assault and several additional counts, according to the charging papers. Missouri law sets out the domestic assault and attempt offenses, and attempted murder is generally treated one level below the completed crime. That means attempted first-degree murder is typically filed as a Class B felony, which can carry a potential prison term of five to fifteen years, as outlined in the Revisor of Missouri. Criminal-defense attorneys note that actual penalties and case outcomes can vary by county and by the specific facts, although they describe the usual sentencing exposure on an attempted first-degree murder charge as falling within that Class B range.
Victim's wishes and prosecutor response
As reported by KSDK, the charging documents state that deputies pushed the case forward even after the victim said she did not want to press charges, citing worries about her safety and that of her unborn child. Prosecutors in domestic-violence cases often argue that broader public-safety concerns can justify moving ahead without the victim's cooperation, especially when a firearm is involved. Authorities did not immediately release additional information about the woman’s condition or any upcoming court appearances.
Where to get help
For anyone experiencing abuse or worried about someone else, the National Domestic Violence Hotline offers confidential support 24 hours a day. The Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence also maintains a statewide list of shelters and crisis services. In an emergency, call 911. Local victim-advocacy groups can help with safety planning, emergency shelter options and information about protective orders.
