Man accused of strangulation, kidnapping in South Bend

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind. - A man was arrested for allegedly strangling and kidnapping a woman in South Bend, according to the probable cause affidavit.

Jeffrey Williams, 28, was arrested on the charges of strangulation, domestic battery, kidnapping, criminal confinement, and intimidation.

On Wednesday, South Bend Police were called to the area of Dubail and Taylor streets for a reported kidnapping in progress.

At the scene, officers found the victim, a woman, hiding.

The victim said the person who had done this to her was in her car, which was parked two blocks away.

That person was identified as Williams, according to reports.

The victim said she and Williams began dating about two months ago.

Earlier that evening, the two went to dinner in her vehicle and then Williams took her home and borrowed her vehicle to visit his brother, reports said.

When Williams returned later that evening, the victim said Williams began acting "paranoid."

Williams said people were out to "get him" and accused the victim of cheating on him, according to reports.

Williams then allegedly picked up the victim and threw her on the bed.

He then put his hands around her neck and began squeezing, reports said.

When the victim told Williams she had a hard time breathing, he allegedly said, "I know."

Officers noticed a laceration around the victim's neck and that it was swollen.

The victim said her 12-year-old child was nearby when the incident took place.

After the strangulation, Williams began ordering the victim around.

When the victim told Williams she was scared, he replied, "well if you're so scared, take me to my aunties house," reports said.

Williams allegedly forced the victim to get into her vehicle and drive him away from the residence.

When the victim tried to get out of the vehicle, Williams grabbed her and closed the door, police said.

Williams allegedly told the victim he would kill her if she tried to escape.

Williams had the victim drive around Dubail Street and when they came to the intersection, the victim slammed on the brakes and got out of the vehicle, reports said.

Williams chased her but the victim was able to escape and call the police, according to reports.

Williams was arrested and is being held on a $30,000 cash bond.

He is due in court on October 6.