Justin Woodling

Justin Woodling, 43, of Canyon Lake, Texas, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty to Assault Family Violence with a Previous Conviction. Visiting Judge Robert Updegrove also issued an affirmative finding that Woodling's offense involved family violence.

The conviction stems from an incident on May 30, 2024, when Comal County deputies responded to a physical disturbance. They found a woman outside with bleeding injuries to her face and chest. The victim reported that Woodling struck her in the head with a blunt object when she attempted to call 911. She also stated that Woodling threatened to harm himself and falsely blame her. When questioned about the victim’s injuries, Woodling claimed she had self-inflicted the wound and alleged a history of self-harm.

Beyond the criminal charges, the Comal County D.A.’s Office filed for a protective order in March 2025, on behalf of the victim. County Court at Law Judge Charles Stephens subsequently granted a Lifetime Protective Order against Woodling.

During the protective order hearing, the State presented evidence including affidavits from two prior victims, revealing Woodling's extensive history of violence against women:

• 2009 (Oklahoma): Woodling's ex-spouse reported he choked her until she lost consciousness during an argument. He was arrested for strangulation, though charges were later reduced to Domestic Assault and Battery, resulting in one year of Deferred Adjudication.
• 2013 (Oklahoma): The same victim filed for another protective order. Woodling repeatedly violated court orders, failed numerous drug tests, and continued his abuse.
• May 6, 2017 (Oklahoma): Woodling allegedly pushed his ex-spouse onto a couch and pressed a sword against her neck, restricting her breathing. When officers responded, he claimed self-defense. After the relationship ended, he threatened her via text, stating, "If I can’t have you, no one can,” and began stalking her.
• 2018 (Comal County): Another victim in Comal County was granted a protective order after Woodling sent her threatening voicemails and text messages following their breakup, including messages like “I am 2 seconds away right now. You are going to face this [expletive],” and “I’m going to punch your teeth out.” He also allegedly broke into her mother’s home and tampered with her vehicle.

Woodling has a long history of violence and drug-related offenses. He previously served prison sentences in Oklahoma for manufacturing controlled substances and a seven-year term in Texas for Continuous Violation of Conditions of Bond or Protective Order. At the time of the May 2024 incident, Woodling was on parole. His record also includes felony convictions for Domestic Abuse – Assault and Battery, Continuous Violation of Conditions of Bond or Protective Order, and Manufacture of a Controlled Dangerous Substance (CDS)/Possession of Materials with Intent to Manufacture.

The case was investigated by the Comal County Sheriff’s Department. Chief Felony Prosecutor Sammy McCrary prosecuted the case with assistance from Assistant District Attorney Somerset Peterson.