Christopher Wardle Offered Plea Deal in Strangulation Assault of Late Wife Catherine Sorensen

BOZEMAN, Mont. — Christopher Wardle has been offered a plea deal in the high-profile assault case involving his late wife, Catherine "Cate" Sorensen, with sentencing scheduled for August.

Prosecutors allege that in January 2022, Wardle returned home intoxicated, assaulted Sorensen, strangled her, ripped out her hair, and smashed her phone before fleeing the scene. Sorensen managed to escape to a neighbor's home and contact police.

Sorensen, a Park County teacher, died in February 2023 after being struck by a vehicle in an incident under investigation. Wardle faces ongoing scrutiny in connection with her death, though the plea deal pertains specifically to the earlier assault charges, which included felony strangulation of a partner or family member, partner/family member assault, and tampering with a communication device.

The case has drawn intense attention due to allegations of repeated domestic abuse and Wardle's history of violating conditions of release. Court records and family statements indicate he allegedly violated bond terms multiple times — reports range from eight to nearly 20 — including missing alcohol tests and other infractions, yet remained out on bond for extended periods.

Sorensen's daughters, Sarah and Hannah Baker, along with other family members, have publicly expressed frustration with the court process, describing it as "infuriating." They allege Wardle isolated Sorensen from her loved ones and hid the abuse. Her ex-husband has also criticized the system for failing to detain Wardle despite the violations.

A dedicated Facebook page, "The Tragic Truth of Chris Wardle," has amplified the family's calls for accountability, highlighting concerns over perceived leniency and broader issues of domestic violence response in the justice system.

Under the reported plea terms, Wardle is expected to plead guilty to a reduced charge such as witness tampering, with prosecutors recommending limited or no jail time. Sentencing is set for August. The development comes as advocates push for stronger protections for victims of intimate partner violence.

This case underscores ongoing challenges in Montana and nationwide regarding pretrial release for domestic violence offenders and the difficulties families face in seeking justice when victims pass away before trials conclude.