A New Paltz man landed himself in jail on charges including strangulation, and unlawful imprisonment following a domestic dispute. 

On March 21st, 2017 around 4:40 am, New Paltz police responded to a report of subjects fighting in the roadway and a female screaming for help. Once officers arrived, they located a female victim with multiple visible injuries.

The victim and 911 caller were interviewed by officers and it was determined that a male subject chased the victim, and then retreated when residents in the neighborhood heard the noise.

Officers located the male subject, Brian Higgins, 36 of New Paltz in his residence and detained him. It was determined that Higgins and the female victim were involved in a domestic dispute.

A significant crime scene was located in the residence as well as weapons that Higgins used. Through interviews and crime scene processing, it was determined that the female victim repeatedly attempted to leave Higgins' residence only to be physically assaulted, detained against her will, and menaced with a knife.

The female was eventually able to break free and fled down the roadway, with Mr. Higgins in pursuit.

Higgins was arrested and charged with the following:

  • Strangulation, second-degree, Felony
  • Unlawful Imprisonment, Felony
  • Menacing, second-degree
  • Criminal Possession of a Weapon, fourth-degree
  • Assault, third-degree
  • Unlawful Possession of Marijuana

Higgins was arraigned and remanded to Ulster County Jail in lieu of $15,000 cash or bond. He is due back in court at a later date.

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