Man Accused of Hitting Woman Holding Child

An area man is accused of striking and choking a woman while she was holding a child.

Andrew Clay of Gainesville is charged with first-degree domestic assault, armed criminal action and endangering the welfare of a minor.

According to the Ozark County Times, an Ozark County deputy said in a probable cause statement the incident occurred March 4. In addition to hitting and choking the female, Clay allegedly threatened her with a knife. The deputy says Clay was carrying the knife in an angry and threatening manner.

Online court records reportedly do not indicate the date of Clay’s next court appearance. If convicted of the assault charge, he could face five to 15 years in prison.

(Story from KTLO/Ozark County Times)