CALDWELL, Idaho (CBS2) — A California man, Robert Seviano Howell, 32, of Orangevale, is being held on a $2 million bond for attempted murder following a domestic violence incident. Howell was arrested by the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) on Jan. 16 after deputies responded to a call about attempted strangulation at Celebration Park, south of Melba.
According to court documents, Howell admitted to park employees that he had choked his pregnant wife. Deputies detained Howell upon arrival, while EMS personnel provided life-saving medical care to the victim, who remains hospitalized in critical condition in Boise.
Howell reportedly sent his five children, aged 1 to 14, away from the family vehicle before entering the back seat and attempting to strangle his wife with the intent to kill her. He told detectives he stopped only when he believed she was dead. After leaving the vehicle and returning later, Howell found the victim still alive and sought help from park employees, who contacted 911.
Court documents reveal Howell clarified there was no argument leading up to the strangulation, stating it was a deliberate attempt to end her life. The Canyon County Sheriff’s Office declared the children to be in imminent danger, placing them in the custody of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
Sheriff Kieran Donahue commented on the case, saying, “Domestic violence is one of the most horrific crimes we encounter because it strikes at the very heart of safety and trust. This case is tragic. A woman was nearly killed by someone she trusted. It is our sincere hope and prayer that she fully recovers from this horrible experience. Unfortunately, a family unit has been destroyed. This is the true face and tragedy of domestic violence. I am extremely grateful the victim had the strength to endure and survive, especially for the children, thanks in part to the quick actions of the park employees, EMS personnel, and the deputies on scene.”
Donahue added, “No one should ever have to endure this kind of pain, and we will continue to fight to protect those who cannot protect themselves and bring awareness to this massive issue.”