Dona Ana County Sheriff’s deputies arrest man accused of choking pregnant ex-girlfriend

ANTHONY, New Mexico -- The Dona Ana County Sheriffs office said deputies arrested Jose Morales-Vasquez for allegedly choking and beating his ex-girlfriend. Deputies said the incident took place May 15 in Anthony, NM.

Deputies had responded to a report of a domestic disturbance that happened through the night. When deputies arrived to the scene, they said a woman was seen to have several visible injuries, including bruising on her body and neck.

Officials said the woman claimed Morales-Vasquez called her the night before to ask for a ride after his vehicle broke down. The woman said while driving him to his home, he began asking her to unlock her phone. When she refused, deputies said Morales-Vasquez battered her and took her car keys. Morales-Vasquez is accused of then punching the victim's windshield and refused to let her leave his home.

While inside the home, the victim reportedly told deputies Morales-Vasquez was drinking beer and snorting some kind of drugs. Morales-Vasquez allegedly continued to batter the victim and broke her phone. The victim told deputies she was 6 months pregnant.

During the alleged physical altercation, Morales-Vasquez allegedly grabbed her with both hands and choked her. The victim told deputies she attempted to leave but was unable to because Morales-Vasquez placed himself between her and the door. Morales-Vasquez eventually fell asleep and that's when deputies said the victim was able to leave the residence.

The victim was transported to Providence Hospital in El Paso for medical care.

The Dona Ana Sheriff's Office and Metro Narcotics Agents conducted a search at Morales-Vasquez home, where they said they found several items consistent with drug trafficking as well as 14.32 grams of presumed cocaine.

Morales-Vasquez was charged with kidnapping, trafficking, aggravated battery on a household member, battery on a household member and criminal damage to property of a household member