Photo by: Mauricio Lopez, Jr.
A 33-year-old Ocala man was arrested on battery charges after he was accused of choking his girlfriend for around 30 seconds during an argument that turned physical in their bedroom.
On Tuesday, November 5, a Marion County Sheriff’s Office corporal and deputy trainee were dispatched to a local residence in reference to a physical altercation. Upon arrival, they made contact with the female victim who advised that her boyfriend, Mauricio Lopez, Jr., had “strangled” her shortly after their baby began crying, according to the arrest report.
The victim stated that Lopez asked her why their baby was crying, and she responded by stating, “I don’t know.” Lopez then allegedly grabbed the victim’s throat and choked her for approximately 30 seconds.
During the incident, the victim advised that she felt lightheaded and was unable to breathe at one point. She added that her fingers also “began to feel numb.”
When Lopez “let go” of her, the victim stated that she attempted to grab her baby. Lopez allegedly responded by pushing her on her chest, which caused her to fall onto the floor, according to the report.
The corporal noted in the report that a red mark, approximately three to four inches in length, was visible on the victim’s neck and upper chest. On the lower left side of her jaw, near her neck, a separate three-inch red mark was observed.
Following the victim’s statement, the corporal made contact with Lopez. After being read his Miranda rights, Lopez stated that the victim “attempted to take the baby from him,” which caused him to “push (the victim) away from him,” according to the report.
Lopez denied choking the victim, reiterating that he “only pushed her away.” When asked about the victim’s red marks, he stated that the injuries could have been caused when he pushed her.
A witness in the home told the corporal that during the altercation, Lopez “forcefully push(ed) the victim down with one arm when (she) attempted to grab the baby.”
The report stated that the corporal determined the victim’s injuries were “consistent with (her) statements.” As a result, Lopez was arrested and transported to Marion County Jail, where he is currently being held without bond.
Lopez is being charged with domestic battery by strangulation and battery – touch or strike.
A court date has not been scheduled yet, according to jail records.
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Source: ocala-news
