By SYDNEY KENT
Two men who formerly had no connection to each other are now facing charges for battery resulting in bodily injury, a criminal misdemeanor.
Christopher Mayne, 41, and Joshua Aber, 27, both of Bluffton, were charged after an alleged alcohol-fueled altercation on Wednesday.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Mayne told officers that he was in his garage when he saw Aber walking down the street and invited him inside for a beer. Mayne reported that Aber joined him and the two hung out when the situation became aggressive.
Mayne described the man as white, shirtless, and bald with tattoos. He told officers he believed the man lived at the Main Motel. When questioned about why he believed this, Mayne reportedly said that he did not know and the man “randomly” showed up.
A male who resembled the description was seen at Main Motel. Officers knocked on the door where they were met by Aber who also displayed various marks on his body, including purple colored bruising around his neck.
Aber told police he was walking to his wife’s home when Mayne asked him if he wanted to “have a good time” to which he agreed. Aber was hesitant to give information, however, he reported that Mayne tackled him down the stairs when he attempted to leave. Aber also told officers that he kicked and punched Mayne after he attacked him. Due to a dangerously high blood alcohol level of .326 percent, Aber was taken to Bluffton Regional Medical Center for medical clearance before he was arrested.
Both Mayne and Aber changed details about the incident when they were asked for clarification. Both men claimed self defense.
Aber requested to obtain private counsel at his initial hearing. A status of counsel hearing is set for 9 a.m. on Aug. 28 for both cases.
sydney@news-banner.com
