Catoosa County Man Sentenced to 22 Years After Violent Assault on Girlfriend

A Catoosa County jury has convicted 53-year-old Shane Murray Bowling of Aggravated Assault, Family Violence Battery, and Discharge of a Firearm Near a Public Street after a brutal attack on his girlfriend earlier this year. Judge Melissa Gifford Hise sentenced Bowling on October 22, 2025, to 22 years, with the first 15 to be served in custody. After his release, he must complete a Family Violence Intervention Program and undergo a substance-abuse evaluation.

The case began on January 17, 2025, when Deputy Bryce Walker with the Catoosa County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call about shots fired. As he approached the residence, he heard shouting and a loud thump inside. When he entered, Deputy Walker found Bowling standing over the victim, who was bleeding from her face and head.

The investigation revealed that Bowling had fired a pistol into the front yard from the porch, then held the gun to his girlfriend’s head while threatening to kill her. He knocked her out of a chair, slammed her head into the floor several times, and dragged her into the home by her hair, where the assault continued. Deputy Walker forced his way inside and interrupted the attack. A loaded .22 revolver with one spent casing was later recovered from Bowling’s bedroom. Bowling’s mother, who was inside the home at the time, told investigators she heard the assault.

Deputy Walker and Detective K. LeeAnn Moody led the investigation. During the trial, both officers, the victim, and Bowling’s mother testified. The prosecution team included Jennifer Jackson, who prepared the initial file; Annabell Carter, who assisted with jury selection; and Shelby Armstrong, who provided victim support. District Attorney Investigators Christy Smith and Daniel Thacker helped gather evidence. Assistant District Attorney Michael E. Harty tried the case.

District Attorney Clayton M. Fuller issued a sharp statement following the sentencing, emphasizing his office’s commitment to aggressively prosecuting violent domestic offenders and seeking lengthy prison terms for those who terrorize their partners.