By SYDNEY KENT
A Bluffton man was arrested Monday on four charges related to an incident where he allegedly abused his girlfriend and refused to allow her to call for help earlier this month.
Timothy Larson, 23, was arrested for strangulation and criminal confinement, both Level 6 felonies, and one charge of domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of a crime, both Class A misdemeanors.
The charges stem from a 911 open line call where arguing was allegedly heard in the background, according to the probable cause affidavit. Larson’s girlfriend told officers a verbal argument between the couple had escalated when Larson strangled, hit, and bit her. Larson reportedly prevented her from leaving the apartment by cornering her on the bed. When she tried to call 911 for help, Larson took her phone and attempted to break it over his knee.
According to a statement written by Larson’s girlfriend, she allegedly had to trick Larson to leave the apartment.
Officers noted blood on her shirt, lacerations on her finger where she said Larson bit her, as well as red marks on her face, knee, and neck.
A protection order was issued between Larson and his girlfriend. His bond is set at $36,500. An initial hearing has not yet been scheduled.
sydney@news-banner.com
