Police: Man Threatened Ex-Girlfriend With Claw-Hammer During Kidnapping

Las Cruces Police have arrested a man on a host of charges related to his allegedly kidnapping and physically assaulting an ex-girlfriend for four days.

Richard Jacquez, 18, is charged with one count each of kidnapping, aggravated assault and aggravated battery against a household member, battery, criminal sexual penetration and interference with communications.

At noon on July 15, Las Cruces Police responded to Jacquez’s residence where officers learned that Jacquez had allegedly physically prevented the 20-year-old woman and their 4-month-old daughter from leaving since July 12.

Detectives said that on at least two occasions, the woman tried calling 911 but Jacquez prevented her from doing so. Jacquez allegedly threatened the woman with a claw-hammer and strangled her using a shirt.

The woman’s injuries were not life-threatening.

Jacquez was arrested July 15 and was being held at the Dona Ana County Detention Center with bond set at $50,000.