Business owner admits to assault on girlfriend during argument — Photo 35945460 © Alexandru Cuznetov | Dreamstime.com

Cleveland, OH A businessman has pleaded guilty to charges stemming from an assault on his girlfriend. Robert “Bobby” George, 44, of Lakewood, faced accusations of strangling his 25-year-old girlfriend in a June outbreak of violence.

Cuyahoga County prosecutors stated he forced a towel down the victim’s throat and bit her on the nose. He accepted a plea deal, resulting in five years of community control instead of prison time for attempted strangulation, a fifth-degree felony.

During his sentencing on Monday, a judge indicated that a joint recommendation of probation from the victim influenced her decision. George acknowledged the judge’s comments.

George, owner of TownHall restaurant and the Barley House, allegedly attacked his girlfriend during an argument, choking her numerous times throughout the evening. He also reportedly threw her around their shared residence and prevented her from leaving.

In a court indictment, the prosecution detailed the level of harm inflicted on the victim. Initially charged with attempted murder and rape, George faced a series of felonies based on the multiple assaults over several months.

Prosecutor Jane Hanlin expressed the lasting consequences of George’s actions. She stated that he will carry the label of a convicted felon for life.

One of the victim’s submitted statements outlined her fear. She noted that the impacts of the assault left her terrified and resulted in difficulties with trust.

Despite facing serious charges, George compared his situation to that of a political figure, suggesting he was targeted unjustly. He criticized the legal proceedings against him as politically motivated.

George lost funding for a business project due to the charges against him. During Monday’s proceedings, he stated he had not admitted to a crime but acknowledged a step toward one.

He will face imprisonment if he violates probation terms, which include no contact with the victim or her family. Additionally, George must complete community service hours within the first six months of probation.

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