Newport Man Accused of Beating Woman after Argument

Police charged Edward Walker, 40, of 90 Girard Ave., Newport, with domestic simple assault Tuesday night after allegedly punching and slamming a woman against the floor following an argument that erupted while the two were drinking whiskey.

Police said Walker and the woman were talking about their on-again, off-again relationship and it became especially heated when the topic of text messages between Walker and another woman came up.

Another person in the residence called police after she heard a smacking sound and came out to see Walker assaulting the victim.

Police said the victim initially told officers that she was assaulted by Walker, but started to change her story and eventually told police she no longer wished to give a statement.

But police said there was evidence at the scene to confirm the attack and Walker was arrested and held overnight for arraignment Wednesday.