A 31-year-old man was charged with attempted murder and a host of other offenses after allegedly trying to smother his ex-girlfriend with a pillow. The incident occurred in front of the woman’s 5-month-old child.

Nassau County Police arrived at a home in Farmingdale, Long Island, in response to a domestic violence report. Patrick Okula, 31, allegedly punched his 28-year-old ex-girlfriend after a dispute and used a pillow to obstruct her breathing.

The woman broke free and tried to call 911 on her cellphone. Okula then took the phone away and forced the pillow over her face a few more times before she was able to contact police. Her toddler son was present during the altercation, in which she sustained minor injuries.

Okula resisted arrest at first but was ultimately taken into police custody. Officers found the woman’s cell phone in his possession. He was charged with robbery, attempted murder, criminal mischief, endangering the welfare of a child, criminal obstruction of breathing and resisting arrest.

It is not uncommon for domestic violence incidents to quickly escalate in the heat of the moment. When police arrive at the scene, they typically proceed to make arrests without trying to determine what actually happened.

If you have been arrested for domestic violence or related offenses, contact Brill Legal Group right away. Our qualified Long Island defense lawyers are experienced in handling such cases and protecting the rights of the accused.