Police: Newport Man Beat, Strangled Woman

A 39-year-old Newport man is facing a pair of felony charges after allegedly beating and strangling a woman at an Annandale Road apartment Wednesday night.

Police charged Robert C. Leeming, 39, of 45 Annandale Road, with felony domestic assault by strangulation, a felony, and domestic simple assault, third offense, also a felony, after officers were dispatched to the apartment following a 911 call at around 9:13 p.m.. from a woman who whispered “help me,” according to a police report.

Police arrived and could hear fighting from the outside of the apartment.

Police said the victim had visible injuries that appeared from blows to the head and strangulation.

Leeming allegedly was intoxicated and became enraged after the victim had fallen asleep.

The victim reported waking up to Leeming spitting at her and then subjecting her to multiple blows before strangling her. She reportedly was unable to breathe for two seconds but never lost consciousness, police said.

Leeming was arraigned and released on surety bail and is due to appear in court on Feb. 26 for a Newport attorney general conference.