A Storm Lake man was arrested after being accused of choking a woman with young children present.
Storm Lake Police were called shortly after midnight this past Friday to the apartments at 319 East 4th Street for a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, police met with an adult female victim outside the apartment who reported she was assaulted by a man identified as 28-year-old Chai Lee of Storm Lake. The victim reported that Lee was inside the apartment with three minor children and was in possession of a rifle and knife. Soon after, Lee exited the apartment and was taken into custody without incident. Police subsequently located a rifle and knife in the apartment.
After further investigation, police allege that Lee came to the apartment around midnight. Police allege that Lee struck the female victim in the face with his hand, and then began choking her which impeded her airway. Lee allegedly displayed a rifle and knife, and threatened to kill the victim. The victim was reportedly able to flee the apartment and contacted 911. The victim sustained minor injuries to her neck and face, which did not require medical treatment on scene.
Lee was charged with Domestic Abuse Assault Impeding Air/Blood Flow Causing Injury, a class D felony…and 1st Degree Harassment and three counts of Child Endangerment, all aggravated misdemeanors.
Lee was booked into the Buena Vista County Jail, and is being held without bond. The case was referred to the Iowa Department of Human Services.
(Courtesy Community First Broadcasting station KAYL in Storm Lake)
