(Marietta, GA – April 30, 2024) Cobb District Attorney Flynn D. Broady Jr. announces that Michael Lydon Strong, 43, was found guilty of aggravated stalking and disorderly Conduct. Superior Court Judge Jason D. Marbutt sentenced Michael Strong to 10 years imprisonment.

On Sept. 21, 2020, the victim and her 13-year-old son applied for a protection order against the defendant, who was the victim's live-in boyfriend at the time. In the months leading up to the victim seeking protection, the defendant would have fits of rage and anger in which he would yell and throw things. 

Evidence presented to the jury included instances where Strong threw a propane tank, damaged property, destroyed food, and physically assaulted the victim. The victim and her son testified that these incidents grew increasingly frequent. Both the victim and her son were afraid that calling 911 would enrage the defendant even more and lead to worse repercussions.

A Family Violence Ex Parte Protection Order was issued on Sept. 21, 2020. The defendant later violated the terms of the order by unlawfully entering the victim's residence on October 12, 2020. The defendant broke into the victim's bedroom while she and her son were asleep. 

The victim’s juvenile son woke to his mother’s screams and stepped out of his room to see the defendant coming towards him and telling him not to call 911. The juvenile went back into his room, locked his door, as the defendant tried to force his way into the juvenile’s room. The juvenile called 911 and officers were dispatched to the victim’s location. Officers arrived at the house while the defendant was still inside the residence. 

On April 25, 2024, a 12-person jury found Michael Lydon Strong guilty of aggravated stalking and disorderly conduct. Superior Court Judge Jason D. Marbutt sentenced the defendant to 10 years in prison. 

"The jury’s decision highlights our office's dedication to protecting and advocating for victims of domestic violence," said District Attorney Flynn D. Broady Jr.

Assistant District Attorney’s Holly Morgan and Dallas Cox prosecuted the case on behalf of the state. The defendant was represented by Brian A. Hobbs.

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