A West Liberty man has been accused of domestic abuse/assault impeding air/blood flow causing injury.

Brian Almendarez, 26, was charged Oct. 21 with domestic abuse/assault impeding air/blood flow causing injury, endangerment without causing injury, domestic abuse/assault without intent causing injury, and obstruction of emergency communications.

According to the arrest affidavit, Almendarez began arguing with the female victim on the evening of Oct. 5. Almendarez began to break the windows of the victim’s car and apartment. When the victim attempted to dial 911, Almendarez took her phone and punched her in the chest, the affidavit said.

Almenadrez then proceeded to kick the victim in the ribs and choke her with his hands until she neared the point of unconsciousness, according to the affidavit. The assault led to busted blood vessels in the victim’s eyes and bruises, redness, and swelling over her body, the affidavit said.

The assault took place while three of the victim’s children were present. The victim and Almendarez have been in a relationship for four months, the affidavit said.

Domestic abuse/assault impeding air/blood flow causing injury is a Class-D felony.