Arrest made following New London domestic disturbance

New London — Blake Van Ness, 36 of New London, faces charges of Criminal Mischeif in the third degree and Domestic Assault Impeding Flow of Air/Blood, both aggravated misdemeanors after Henry County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a domestic disturbance Feb. 8 at approximately 1:05 a.m.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a domestic disturbance occurring in the 300-block of South Ash Street in New London. The victim reported the assault had occurred at multiple points in the evening and the offender had left after breaking several things inside the residence.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office responded to the report and began an investigation. It was determined Van Ness had assaulted the victim by impeding the normal breathing or circulation of blood by applying pressure to the throat or neck during an altercation.

Criminal reports filed with Iowa Courts further explain the investigation revealed “multiple injuries/marks to the victim as well as distinguishable hand prints on or around the neck.”

It was also determined, during the altercation, Blake damaged items inside the residence. The dollar amount to fix or replace the items was estimated to be between $750 and $1500.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.