Rockford man accused of strangling a woman after argument

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford Police arrested Leonardo Mendoza-Malpica, 35, for allegedly punching and strangling a woman.

On July 15, around 8 a.m., police responded to the 400 block of Kent Street for a domestic battery call. The victim told officials she woke up to Mendoza-Malpica wanting to argue with her.

The suspect proceeded to punch and slap the woman in the face, according to court records. The woman told authorities she was then strangled and the suspect said, “I’m going to kill you”.

Mendoza-Malpica blocked the doorway after letting go of her neck and she tried to leave, according to court documents. She attempted to leave but was pushed multiple times, according to police.

The suspect eventually stopped blocking the door and the victim was able to run out of the apartment, officials said. Mendoza-Malpica then followed her and took her phone, according to authorities.

Mendoza-Malpica is being charged with unlawful restraint as well as domestic battery and strangling.

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