James Surrandon Crawford, 36, was arrested Sunday afternoon after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend in their home at the Foxridge condos community on Chalfont Lane, Athens-Clarke County police said.
The 39-year-old alleged victim called 911 as she ran from the home, police said, and when officers arrived they found her holding her throat. She reportedly told police she and Crawford were arguing, and when she tried to leave before things escalated, Crawford grabbed her by the throat in a choke hold, according to police. She feigned compliance with Crawford in a successful bid to get out of the home, police said.
Police said officers found Crawford inside the home, asleep on a couch with an empty bottle of liquor nearby. There was a broken coffee table and other signs of a struggle. He reportedly resisted as officers were placing him under arrest.
Crawford was charged under the state Family Violence Act with battery, simple assault, criminal trespass/damage to property, false imprisonment and obstruction.
Anyone who is in an abusive relationship can seek advice and services by calling Project Safe’s 24-hour hotline at (706) 543-3331, or by visiting www.project-safe.org.