Sebring Man Accused Of Beating Wife

A Sebring man remained in Highlands County Jail in lieu of $21,000 bond Monday, after he was charged in connection with beating and choking his estranged wife who is six months pregnant.

Jose Salvador Martinez, 32, of 1359 Scrubpens Road, was booked Friday and charged with domestic violence battery by strangulation, aggravated domestic violence battery when offender knew or should have known victim was pregnant, kidnap or false imprisonment, cruelty toward a child by an act that could have resulted in physical or mental injury and obstructing justice by intimidation - threatening victim, witness or informant.

According to the sheriff's arrest report, the 23-year-old victim still showed signs on Friday with scratches, bruises and swelling to her neck and head, from the alleged beating she received days earlier on Tuesday, Aug. 5.

Martinez and the victim are still legally married with children in common, although they are separated, the report stated.

Sheriff's investigators say at about 8 p.m. Aug. 5, Martinez and the victim argued. While the victim held their 3-year-old child, Martinez reportedly slammed his pregnant wife's head into the wall. He then wrapped his hands around her throat and choked her, the report stated.

Investigators say he also kept her from calling for help and prevented her from leaving her bedroom, by physically restraining her. This included placing the victim in a "sleeper hold," wrapping his arm around her neck.

He reportedly threatened her with further violence if she tried to leave.