Cayuga County man strangles woman during domestic act and flees scene before deputies arrive

A Cayuga County man was arrested following 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 on the victim’s neck during an altercation on Oct. 22. Officers were initially dispatched at 9:33 p.m. to the Moravia Police Department, where the victim reported that Carman had attempted to stop her from breathing. By the time officers arrived, Carman had reportedly already left the scene.

After a warrant was issued, Carman turned himself in and was found to possess firearms despite his status as a convicted felon. He was later charged with criminal obstruction of breathing or blood circulation and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree, both misdemeanor charges.

Following his arraignment, Carman was held on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond, and a protective order was issued for the victim. The Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with more information to contact them at 315-253-1222 or submit anonymous tips through the SaferWatch app.

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