LCPD: Man tried to strangle wife because she accessed Facebook

Police officers arrested a man accused of beating his wife after he learned she was using a cell phone to access Facebook.

Jose C. Melendez, 35, of the 2200 block of Dona Ana Road, is charged with one count of aggravated battery against a household member causing great bodily harm.

On February 6, 2018, police officers were dispatched to the report of a domestic disturbance at the couple’s home on Dona Ana Road. Officers arrived to find Melendez and his wife with various scratches and abrasions. Police said the woman had injuries to her hands, arms, torso and face.

Investigators learned the couple got into an argument Monday evening after Melendez learned his wife was using her cell phone to access Facebook and communicate with others.

Melendez is accused to strangling his wife until she lost consciousness. Melendez is also accused of striking his wife multiple times, and biting her hands and arms when she tried to defend herself, police said. Melendez also appeared to have scratch marks consistent with his wife’s statements that she was trying to defend herself.

Melendez was arrested and booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center where he is initially being held without bond.