Man arrested for strangulation, drug possession after deputies find abandoned vehicle

A 35-year-old man from Las Vegas was arrested early Friday morning on multiple charges, including strangulation and drug possession, after Marshall County deputies discovered an abandoned vehicle during routine patrol.

At approximately 5:32 a.m. on January 17, a Marshall County Sheriff's deputy came across an abandoned vehicle. While speaking with the occupants, they learned that the passenger, Lemeris Anton Woodward, 35, had allegedly strangled his fiancée, who was the driver of the vehicle.

During the investigation, deputies discovered that Woodward had taken the woman's phone to prevent her from calling for help.

While conducting the investigation, deputies detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle yielded approximately 344 grams of marijuana.

Woodward was arrested and transported to the Marshall County Jail. He faces charges of strangulation, interfering with reporting a crime, and possession of marijuana. His bond was set at $5,000.

Readers are reminded that charging information supported by an affidavit of probable cause is merely an allegation that a crime has been committed and that there is only probable cause to believe a crime has been committed. Those charged are presumed innocent throughout the proceedings and are entitled to be represented by counsel and entitled to a trial by jury at which the State is obligated to provide proof beyond a reasonable doubt before a judgment of guilt may be made.