A woman alleged that an argument had turned violent when her boyfriend smacked her in the face, choked her until she couldn’t breathe, and burst blood vessels around her neck. She said that after the attack, he attempted to smear feces on her face, wrestled her while she was holding their 4-month-old daughter, and bit her on the thumb.
She showed deputies visible injuries, including scratches and pinprick marks around her throat. Officers documented the injuries with photographs.
Adding to the disturbing account, she said the man had a history of abuse, had stolen her anxiety medication, and intentionally hit himself in the face to try and manipulate the narrative.
She told deputies she wanted to press charges and inquired about obtaining a court date and a protection order.
The Arrest and Aftermath
The suspect was arrested at the scene and booked into the Lawrence County Jail. His court date was set for the following Monday. Officers advised the woman on the steps to seek a protection order and begin the process of ensuring her safety and that of her infant daughter.
🛑 Domestic Abuse: What You Should Know — And How to Get Help
This case is a gut-wrenching example of the cycle of control, fear, and escalating violence that defines many abusive relationships. Whether the victim is a partner, spouse, or family member — and whether there are children involved or not — domestic abuse is a crime and help is available.
💡 Warning Signs of Abuse:
- Physical violence (hitting, choking, biting)
- Verbal threats and intimidation
- Isolation from friends/family
- Control over money, medication, or movement
- Emotional abuse and gaslighting
- Abuse escalating during or after pregnancy
💬 What To Do If You’re in Danger
✅ Call 911 if you or someone you love is in immediate danger.
✅ Document everything. Take photos of injuries, save threatening texts, and keep a journal.
✅ File a report. Even if you’re unsure about pressing charges now, getting your story on record is important.
✅ Seek a Protection Order. Local courts can issue a Temporary Protection Order (TPO) or Civil Protection Order (CPO) to legally keep your abuser away.
✅ Talk to an advocate. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org.
✅ Make a safety plan. Know where you can go, who you can call, and how to leave safely if things escalate again.
👶 A Baby in the Crossfire
In this case, a 4-month-old child was in the room during the alleged abuse. Exposure to violence — even in infancy — can have lifelong psychological impacts. Getting to safety protects you and your child.
If you or someone you know is trapped in a dangerous situation, you are not alone, and you do not have to live in fear. There is a way out — and people ready to help.
