A Kent man was arrested over the weekend after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend and violating a court-ordered No Contact Order, according to Kent police.
The incident began when a concerned family member called 911 to report that the suspect had threatened to kill his girlfriend and child.
The caller, who had spoken with the girlfriend over FaceTime, saw that she had a significant facial injury.
Officers responded to the girlfriend’s home, positioning themselves at both the front and back of the residence.
Police say the 35-year-old suspect initially looked over the rear fence, appearing to check for an escape route, but retreated back inside when he saw an officer.
The officers contacted the suspect and the 33-year-old girlfriend without incident.
They saw a serious head injury on the woman, who later told police that she had been struck multiple times and strangled to the point of being unable to breathe for several seconds.
She was transported to the hospital for further treatment.
Police determined that the assault took place in a vehicle, with the couple’s elementary-aged child partially witnessing the attack from the back seat.
Investigators also confirmed that a No Contact Order was in place between the suspect and the victim.
The suspect was arrested and booked on charges of second-degree assault and felony violation of a court order.
Kent police praised the family member who called 911, saying their quick action may have prevented a worse outcome.
Police encouraged anyone experiencing domestic violence or witnessing concerning behavior to seek help and provided resources for victims and those seeking support to stop harmful behaviors.
For immediate danger, police urge calling 911. Resources include the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 and DAWN Rising at 425-656-7867.
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