By Joe Bachman

A 31-year-old man was arrested on Oct. 19, 2015 after police say he strangled his girlfriend.

Patrick Rice, of Stratford,  is charged with strangulation and suffocation, domestic abuse, and disorderly conduct. According to reports, an argument ensued between Rice’s live-in girlfriend in regards to his failure to pay rent. Rice would then attack the victim, and grab her by the shoulder and the mouth. Rice would then throw her to the ground, get on top of her and place his forearm across her neck and press down.

Rice also placed his thumbs on the sides of her neck and informed the victim that he was “trained to break necks”. Once the victim informed Rice that she would call the police he let her go.

If convicted, Rice faces up to six years imprisonment and up to $10,000 in fines.

Rice returns to court on Feb. 26 for a pre-trial conference. He is currently out on a $1,000 bond.