Cayuga County man chokes woman during domestic, flees scene before deputies arrive

A Cayuga County man has been 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 on Oct. 24 after an investigation revealed that he allegedly placed his hands on the victim’s neck during an altercation on Oct. 22. Deputies were initially dispatched at 9:33 p.m. to the Moravia Police Department, where the victim reported that Carman had attempted to prevent her from breathing. By the time deputies arrived, Carman had reportedly left the scene.

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

Following his arraignment, Carman was remanded on $10,000 cash bail or $20,000 bond, and an order of protection was issued for the victim. The Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone with further information to contact them at 315-253-1222 or to submit anonymous tips via the SaferWatch app.