A Cayuga County man chokes a woman during a domestic encounter and flees before deputies arrive

A Cayuga County man was arrested after a domestic incident in which he allegedly obstructed the victim’s breathing, according to the Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office.

Clifford L. Carman Jr., 51, of Summerhill, was arrested Oct. 24 after an investigation revealed he allegedly put his hands around the victim’s neck during an Oct. 22 argument. Deputies were initially dispatched to the Moravian Police Department at 9:33 p.m., where the victim reported that Carman tried to stop her from breathing. By the time deputies arrived, Carman had reportedly left the scene.

After the warrant was issued, Carman later surrendered and was found to be in possession of the firearm despite his status as a convicted felon. He was later charged with criminal obstruction of breathing or circulation and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, both felonies.

Following the arraignment, Carman was ordered held on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond and an order of protection was issued for the victim. The sheriff’s office encourages anyone with additional information to contact them at 315-253-1222 or submit an anonymous tip through the SaferWatch app.

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