WHITE PLAINS – A Yonkers man has been indicted by a Westchester County grand jury on 12 charges, allegedly for strangling and assaulting his girlfriend several times during a violent February attack and later repeatedly violating an order of protection following his arrest.
Otoniel Morel Tejeda, 37, was charged with strangulation, criminal contempt, assault, criminal mischief, possession of a weapon, menacing and aggravated harassment.
He was arraigned and remains free on $1,000 cash bail after a judge denied a request from the District Attorney’s Office to increase bail.
“Domestic violence is not a private matter, it is a serious crime, and no one should ever have to live in fear in their home or relationship,” said DA Susan Cacace. “I am deeply disappointed that our request for a bail increase, which sought to protect the victim from further harm – particularly in light of the defendant’s alleged repeated violations of an order of protection – was denied.
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