A Cape Coral, Florida man has been held accountable after he allegedly viciously beat a woman who is 6-months pregnant for the belief that she is currently infected with the novel Coronavirus.
Last Monday evening, Cape Coral police were in the midst of responding to a possible domestic violence incident at an apartment complex after receiving notification from a concerned citizen.
As one of the officers made their way toward the apartment in question, it was reported that he could hear a woman yelling in a manner that led to the belief that she was in distress.
When the alleged victim and perpetrator came into the view of the officer, it was reported that they saw a man standing over a woman with his hands around her throat as she pleaded with him to let her go.
Upon entering the residence, the authorities reported that the alleged victim was covered in blood. They reportedly made an attempt to get the alleged assailant, identified as 24-year-old Fort Myers resident Joseph Newell, to release the woman and cooperate with them. It was asserted that Newell was assaulting the pregnant woman because he was convinced she was infected with the coronavirus.
Since Newell reportedly carried on with attacking the woman, the authorities placed a “pain compliance” item against his neck to try to subdue him.
After employing the device on Newell, the authorities grabbed the man and affixed handcuffs on him as he allegedly continued anxiously talking about coronavirus. It was reported that Newell, who was allegedly under the influence of an intoxicant, started smashing his head on the ground against the cement before he was placed into a police vehicle.
The alleged victim was taken to a local hospital so she could be assessed and receive treatment if necessary, and Newell was booked into the Lee County Jail.
Newell is facing charges for suspicion of aggravated battery, and he was incarcerated in lieu of a $15,000 bond.
If you or someone you love is suspected of an assault or battery crime, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.