Devonta Jones, a 25-year-old Ohio man, is accused of abducting and strangling the mother of his two children after forcing her into a vehicle and driving her to a remote creek, prosecutors say.
Background
According to court documents reviewed by CrimeBytes, the alleged incident began when Jones forced the woman to leave her home and get into his vehicle. Prosecutors said during Jones' court appearance on Saturday that he held onto the seat belt to prevent her from escaping as he drove toward a creek area. During the journey, Jones allegedly told the victim, "I'm about to do you bad," according to the criminal complaint.
The woman told police that after arriving at the creek, she and Jones engaged in a verbal altercation that escalated into physical violence. Court documents allege Jones then "began choking her with his hands, causing her to lose consciousness." Investigators say Jones also allegedly took the woman's iPhone without her consent during the encounter.
The Charges
Jones has been charged with abduction, strangulation, and theft in connection with the alleged assault. He appeared in court on Saturday where prosecutors detailed the sequence of events leading to his arrest. During the hearing, defense attorney cited prior dismissed charges against Jones, including a menacing charge, and suggested the victim had previously made a false allegation against his client.
"I think this might be a case where somebody is weaponizing the system when they don't get what they want," Jones' attorney told the court, according to courtroom reporting by local affiliates.
Jones posted 10% of his $2,000 bond and was released from custody following his court appearance. His next scheduled court date was not immediately available at the time of this report.
Key Takeaways
- Devonta Jones, 25, charged with abduction, strangulation, and theft in Ohio
- Allegedly forced the mother of his two children into a vehicle by holding her seat belt
- Drove victim to remote creek where he allegedly strangled her until she lost consciousness
- Told victim "Nobody will hear you here" during alleged attack, prosecutors say
- Also accused of taking victim's iPhone without consent
- Posted bond and released from custody after court appearance
What's Next
Jones remains out on bond while his case proceeds through the court system. Additional court dates are expected to be scheduled as the prosecution continues building its case. The investigation was handled by local law enforcement, with prosecutors pursuing charges of abduction and strangulation that carry significant penalties under Ohio state law.
The victim reportedly told police she and Jones share two children together, establishing a domestic violence component to the alleged attack that investigators say may factor into the charges.