Modesto man convicted of felony domestic violence faces lengthy prison sentence
A Modesto man was convicted by a jury last month of multiple felony charges tied to repeated domestic violence incidents that occurred over nearly a year, according to court records and the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office.
Dustin Tibbetts, 33, was found guilty on Dec. 19 following a jury trial involving assaults that occurred between October 2022 and August 2023, including incidents that took place while the victim was pregnant and later in the presence of their infant child. At sentencing, Tibbetts could face up to nine years and eight months in state prison.
District Attorney Jeff Laugero said the case involved a pattern of violence, threats and coercive behavior that left the victim fearful of retaliation and unable to safely leave the relationship.
According to court documents, Tibbetts assaulted the victim during an October 2022 incident while she was pregnant and threatened to kill her. Prosecutors said the victim attempted to leave the relationship multiple times but felt trapped due to threats and fear for her safety.
Several months later, on Aug. 10, 2023, Tibbetts assaulted the victim again while their infant child was present, causing serious facial injuries that required medical treatment, according to court records.
The jury convicted Tibbetts of felony domestic violence causing great bodily injury, assault likely to produce great bodily injury and making criminal threats. Following the verdict, Tibbetts was remanded into custody, and bail was set at no bail, according to a court minute order.
With assistance from the Stanislaus County Family Justice Center and the District Attorney’s Victim Services Unit, the victim ultimately was able to escape the abusive relationship and seek help, authorities said. Tibbetts is scheduled for sentencing on March 10, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. in Department 5 of Stanislaus County Superior Court.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence or seeking help can contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or text START to 88788. In emergencies, call 911.
