Lincoln City Man Sentenced For Domestic Violence

As October shines a light on Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Lincoln County community is reminded of the ongoing fight to protect survivors and hold abusers accountable. On October 3, 2025, Presiding Judge Sheryl Bachart sentenced 32-year old Marcus Penza, to 309 months, or 25.8 years in prison for the repeated and severe domestic assault of his wife over a two-year period—a case that has drawn attention for its disturbing details and the survivor’s extraordinary courage.

Penza was convicted by a 12-person Lincoln County jury in August 2025 following a three-day trial. He was found guilty of four counts of Unlawful Use of a Weapon, three counts of Assault in the Second Degree, three counts of Menacing – Constituting Domestic Violence, three counts of Assault in the Fourth Degree – Constituting Domestic Violence, and one count of Tampering with a Witness.

According to court records, the case began in November 2024, when the victim—accompanied by her four small children—arrived at the Lincoln City Police Department to report escalating violence by her husband. The victim also voiced fears that Penza might commit gun violence against her or others in the community. Investigators later seized seven firearms from Penza’s home, including one identified as the weapon he used repeatedly during assaults.

The investigation revealed further manipulation: Penza had coerced his wife into signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) meant to silence her from revealing the abuse. While in custody, he attempted to weaponize the NDA, filing a $2 million handwritten lawsuit against her for “breach of contract” after she reported him to police. He later used the lawsuit in an attempt to pressure her to withdraw charges—actions that resulted in his tampering with a witness conviction.

During sentencing, Judge Bachart condemned Penza’s conduct in striking terms. “I have been on the bench for 18 years now. The pattern of violence and the level of manipulation and control in this case is something I don’t think I’ve seen before... There is nothing mitigating about this. If she hadn’t had the courage to walk away from you, it would still be going on.” The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Jenna Wallace and investigated by Detective Jon Humphreys of the Lincoln City Police Department. The District Attorney’s Office commended the investigative team for ensuring the victim’s safety and for creating a supportive environment that allowed her to come forward.

As communities across the nation observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, local advocates urge survivors to seek help and remind the public that resources are available year-round.

Anyone experiencing domestic violence or threats of abuse can contact:

• Lincoln County Victim Advocates: 541-265-4145

• Email: davictimadvocates@co.lincoln.or.us

Everyone deserves a relationship free from fear and harm. This October, and every month, the Lincoln County District Attorney’s Office reaffirms its commitment to protecting victims and prosecuting domestic violence offenders to the fullest extent of the law.