Harrington man arrested on assault and strangulation charges

HARRINGTON, Del. – A Harrington man is facing charges following a reported assault Tuesday evening.

Just before 9:30 PM, officers from the Harrington Police Department were called to a residence on Mispillion Street in Harrington. On arrival, a female victim reported to police that she was assaulted by 48-year-old Patrick J. Billings the previous night.

Further investigation revealed that Billings and the victim, who are related, had gotten into an argument, during which Billings allegedly assaulted and attempted to choke the victim. It was also learned that Billings would not allow the victim to leave the residence, and when the victim tried to call 911, Billings took her phone to prevent her from calling the police.

The victim suffered minor injuries as a result of the incident.

Billings was arrested and charged with strangulation, first degree unlawful imprisonment, third degree assault, and malicious interference with emergency communications. He was arraigned and committed to the Sussex Correctional Institute on $8,500 cash bond.