CABELL COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – An argument over a $500 car insurance deductible that eventually turned violent has led to the arrest of one man.
According to a criminal complaint, on Monday, February 27, the defendant, Joseph Ryan Elswick, and the female victim were arguing about a $500 deductible that needed to be made on her vehicle.
The victim stated that she packed her belongings and began to walk out of the bedroom and Mr. Elswick “forcefully” pulled one of the bags that she was carrying on her shoulder which caused her to fall to the ground and re-injure her left ankle.
The victim further stated that she got up and Mr. Elswick pushed her backward into the electric heater. Mr. Elswick then climbed on top of her
while she was on the ground and put both of his hands around her neck for approximately 15-20 seconds. The victim said she had trouble breathing during the strangulation, but did not pass out that she can recall.
Elswick is alleged to have had his knee on her chest as she was being strangled and repeatedly said “Die B**** Die”.
The victim stated that during the strangulation, she tried to get Mr. Elswick to stop by hitting and scratching him. After the strangulation, she noticed that it became painful to swallow.
Deputies observed minor cuts on Mr. Elswick’s person. The victim stated she blocked some of the strikes, but was hit with a closed fist on her mouth by Mr. Elswick and was also hit several times with a closed fist to the back and side of her head.
Deputies observed a minor cut on the victim’s lower lip as well as red marks located on both sides of her neck. Red marks were also observed on both sides of her jawline and redness around her collarbone. The victim stated to Deputies that she was afraid she was going to die.
Elswick was arrested and charged with domestic battery and strangulation. He is currently at Western Regional Jail on a $51,800 bond.
