An Alabama man has been sentenced to life in prison after brutally attacking his ex-girlfriend with a claw hammer months after she ended their relationship.
Latarius Dale was found guilty of first-degree domestic violence by a Houston County jury and was sentenced on May 21. The sentence includes the possibility of parole.
The victim, Brittany Moulton, said Dale became angry after she blocked him and completely cut off contact following their breakup.
Prosecutors Say Attack Happened Inside Victim’s Home
According to prosecutors, Dale broke into Moulton’s home in Lovetown in February 2025 and repeatedly attacked her with a claw hammer.
Authorities said he struck her more than two dozen times in the face, head, and chest until she lost consciousness.
Moulton later recalled hearing footsteps inside her home before seeing a figure dressed in black. She described the experience as one of her greatest fears becoming reality.
Victim Suffered Severe Injuries
The attack left Moulton with life-changing injuries.
She now has a metal plate inside her head and permanent scars across her scalp. Doctors also said one of her retinas was torn, leaving her blind in her right eye.
After the attack, Moulton managed to leave the house and walk to a neighbor’s property for help before collapsing in the yard.
She later said she believed God guided her outside so she could survive.
Victim Says Justice Was Served
Moulton attended the sentencing hearing and became emotional when the judge announced Dale’s punishment.
After the hearing, she said she felt justice had been served and hoped her story would encourage other victims of domestic violence to stay strong and seek help.
She also urged victims not to hesitate to contact support services or resources if they are in danger.
Earlier Domestic Violence Charge Had Been Dropped
Court records show Dale had previously been arrested in 2023 on a third-degree domestic violence charge connected to another alleged incident involving Moulton.
However, Moulton later asked a judge to drop the charge because the couple shared children together and she hoped the relationship could improve.
She eventually ended the relationship permanently in November 2024, about three months before the attack happened.
Case Highlights Domestic Violence Concerns
The case has drawn attention to the dangers of abusive relationships and the difficulties many victims face when trying to leave.
Moulton said she wants her experience to help others recognize that support and protection options are available.
