SEBASTIAN — A woman went to the Sebastian Police Department seeking help after her husband allegedly assaulted and imprisoned her, according to the Sebastian Police Department.
Sebastian officers responded to calls for help in the lobby of the police department at approximately 1 a.m. Monday, according to police.
Detectives arrested John M. Garofalo, 35, on multiple charges including false imprisonment, aggravated assault, domestic violence battery by strangulation, battery, sexual battery and tampering with a victim.
The woman ran to the lobby of Sebastian Police Department after being held against her will, beaten and sexually abused, had her clothing torn, and her cell phone disabled to keep her from calling 911, according to authorities.
Detectives learned that the victim and John Garofalo were married over a month ago and as a result of an unknown difference Garofalo had moved out two days ago, according to police. The victim stated that Garofalo showed up with his belongings very intoxicated late Sunday night. The victim unsuccessfully asked John Garofalo to leave, who subsequently became sick in the residence.
After Garofalo got cleaned up and was resting in the residence he started grabbing, kissing and becoming aggressive with the victim, all against her will, according to police. After physically restraining her for some time, Garofalo exited the residence to get some cigarettes from the garage area and the victim locked Garofalo out of the house.
Garofalo, physically kicked in the door, according to police. The violence escalated to threats of great bodily harm and death when Garofalo allegedly armed himself with a large kitchen knife.
The victim was able to escape from the residence a short time later and ran in torn clothing to the police department, according to authorities. EMS was then notified and the victim was transported to the emergency room so that she could be treated for her injuries.
