Nesquehoning man charged with choking girlfriend

A Nesquehoning man is facing multiple charges after he allegedly choked his girlfriend during an altercation last month.

According to an affidavit filed by Nesquehoning police officer Derek Marouchoc, around 5:30 a.m. on Nov. 21, he was dispatched to the 100 block of East Catawissa Street for a physical domestic in progress.

Marouchoc could hear arguing coming from the home. A man, identified as Erick T. Whaley, 22, of East Catawissa Street, answered the door.

He told police he had been arguing with his girlfriend about a text message but denied any physical altercation.

Marouchoc spoke with the girlfriend, and could see fresh marks on her chest and neck areas, as well as both ears.

The victim told police that she and Whaley had been arguing over text messages and pornography she had found on his cellphone.

The argument escalated when Whaley began to choke her.

The victim said she finally was able to free herself and went outside but he followed her and continued to argue, which prompted the neighbor calling police.

Whaley was arrested and after being shown photographs of the victim’s marks, said that he was only holding her down.

He faces charges of simple assault, harassment and two counts disorderly conduct.

He was arraigned before District Judge Joseph D. Homanko Sr., and released after posting bond.

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled before District Judge Casimir Kosciolek of Lansford on Jan. 23.