A Reno man has been convicted of domestic battery by strangulation and battery by a probationer, according to a statement from the Washoe County District Attorney's Office.
A jury found 41-year-old Anthony Selleck guilty after he strangled a woman with a belt while she was driving.
Deputies from the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of domestic violence on December 16, 2024, after the victim’s mother called 911.
She reported that each time she attempted to contact her daughter, Selleck could be heard yelling threats and taking the phone away.
Investigators said Selleck was heard during the calls making statements such as that the victim’s family would never see her again.
Deputies attempted to locate Selleck and the victim by checking places he was known to visit and through cell phone triangulation.
They found Selleck’s car in Sparks based on information from his probation officer.
While deputies were at the scene, Selleck arrived in the victim’s car.
When he saw law enforcement, he drove away over a pedestrian walkway. Officers did not pursue due to the unsafe driving.
Selleck and the victim were later located in Carson City.
Investigators said the victim escaped from the car in a movie theatre parking lot and Selleck fled the area.
In a later interview with detectives, the victim said she picked Selleck up that morning.
While she was driving, he began yelling at her and then strangled her with his belt. She pulled the car over, and they both exited and argued.
Selleck then got into the driver’s seat and convinced her to get into the passenger seat. As they continued driving, he beat her.
The victim used a prearranged code word in a text to her mother, which led to the 911 call.
“This conviction reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting survivors and holding abusers accountable,” said District Attorney Chris Hicks. “Domestic violence cases are complex, and we recognize the courage it takes for victims to come forward under incredibly difficult circumstances. Our office will continue to pursue justice with compassion and determination, regardless of the challenges.”
At trial, Deputy District Attorney Jenna Garcia said the inconsistencies in the victim’s statements were due to the significant abuse and control Selleck had over her.
The jury heard recorded phone calls in which Selleck berated the victim, called her names, and encouraged her not to participate in the trial.
An expert testified about the dynamics of power and control in abusive relationships and why victims in such cases often recant or return to their abusers.
The District Attorney’s Office said Selleck has a history of abuse, including previous protection orders, three misdemeanor domestic battery convictions, and five felony convictions, including two for robbery.
Prosecutors plan to pursue a habitual criminal enhancement during sentencing.
Selleck is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Scott Freeman on July 21.
