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In an exclusive interview, Brian Bennett sheds light on the dangers of strangulation, its misunderstood nature, and the critical need for South Carolina legislators to pass H-3522—a bill aimed at making non-fatal strangulation a felony offense in the state.
Why Strangulation Is Different
“Strangulation is not the same as choking,” Bennett explains. “Choking is an internal blockage of the airway, often accidental, like when food gets stuck. Strangulation, on the other hand, is an intentional act where external pressure is applied to the neck, cutting off airflow and blood flow to the brain.”
The distinction is not just semantic. “Strangulation is a red-flag crime. It’s one of the most lethal forms of domestic violence. A victim who has been strangled is 750% more likely to be killed by their abuser in the future.”
The Hidden Symptoms of Strangulation
One of the reasons strangulation is so dangerous is that its symptoms are often invisible to the naked eye. “We’ve had victims walk away from an incident thinking they’re okay, only to collapse or even die days later,” Bennett says.
He describes both the internal and external warning signs to look for:
- External symptoms: Bruising around the neck, red marks, petechiae (tiny red spots) on the skin or eyes, and voice changes.
- Internal symptoms: Difficulty swallowing, dizziness, memory loss, and stroke-like symptoms caused by oxygen deprivation or vascular damage.
“Victims often don’t realize the long-term effects they might face,” Bennett warns. “Damage to the brain, vocal cords, or blood vessels can cause lifelong complications, including cognitive issues, chronic pain, and PTSD.”
Why Legislation Matters
South Carolina’s lack of a felony statute for non-fatal strangulation puts victims at increased risk. “Right now, prosecutors have to charge strangulation under broader assault laws, which often don’t carry penalties that match the severity of the crime,” Bennett explains. “Passing H-3522 would give prosecutors the tools they need to hold offenders accountable and protect survivors.”
He emphasizes that the proposed legislation isn’t just about punishment—it’s about prevention. “When abusers know there are severe consequences, it can act as a deterrent. And for victims, it’s a message that their experiences are being taken seriously.”
The Lifelong Impact on Survivors
Bennett shares harrowing stories of survivors who’ve endured years of suffering after being strangled. “Strangulation victims often experience symptoms weeks, months, or even years later. Many report difficulty concentrating, chronic migraines, and even PTSD triggered by the event.”
This underscores the importance of education and training. “Healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and even the public need to know how to identify and respond to strangulation,” he says.
Taking Action
Brian Bennett and Strangulation Law SC are leading the charge to pass H-3522, but he stresses the importance of community support. “This isn’t just a legal issue—it’s a public safety issue. We need people to contact their legislators, spread the word, and demand change.”
To support this effort, Strangulation Law SC has partnered with organizations like the Strangulation Training Institute, which offers certified training courses and downloadable resources for those who want to learn more about this critical issue.
Resources
Find helpful resources related to our interview with Brian Bennett and other strangulation supportive advocacy. You’ll also find details, links to find and contact your legislators, and how to support this bill in South Carolina.
