Shreveport Dentist Pleads Guilty to Four Domestic Abuse Charges

A Shreveport dentist was headed to trial this week on a long list of charges related to a domestic violence attack, but at the 9th hour, he decided to plead guilty to the charges.

What Happened in Caddo Court

39-year-old John Allen Russ was in Caddo District Court Monday ready to face a trial, but instead he pled guilty to four felony domestic abuse charges.

District Judge Chris Victory has set a sentencing hearing for Russ for October 5.

What Charges Was Russ Facing

Russ pleaded guilty to one count of domestic abuse battery with serious bodily injury, punishable by up to eight years in prison; one count of domestic abuse battery by strangulation, punishable by up to three years in prison; and two counts of domestic abuse battery with child endangerment, each punishable by up to three years in prison.

District Attorney James Stewart says

So often, victims of domestic violence are not able to come forward. We recognize how difficult that decision can be, and we are grateful to this victim for her strength throughout this prosecution. Our Special Victims Unit was created for cases just like this. We’re here to walk alongside victims, help them handle a difficult process, and pursue justice with compassion, professionalism, and determination.

This case dates back to May 4, 2024, when Russ shared a home with the victim, but at some point during the night he flew into a rage and pulled the woman by her feet from the bed, pinned her to the floor and then forced her against a bedroom door while choking her. Russ held her by the neck with such force she was lifted completely off the ground, unable to breathe. She believed she was going to die. Somehow, she broke free, but Russ grabbed her by the head and slammed her into a dresser, injuring her forehead. She lost consciousness and awakened on the floor bleeding.

Two children, both under age 13, were inside the residence at the time, leading to the domestic abuse battery with child endangerment charges.