OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A 56-year-old Ocala man was arrested early on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, after deputies say he strangled and repeatedly punched a woman during an altercation at the Silver River Inn.

According to a report from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 12:38 a.m. to Apartment 102 at the Silver River Inn, located at 5565 E. Silver Springs Blvd., in reference to a battery complaint.

The victim told deputies that her friend, identified as Eric Edward Shaw, had come to her apartment earlier in the evening. She said Shaw wanted to spend time with her while her husband was in the hospital, and she eventually agreed to let him inside.

According to the report, the victim said the two were sitting in the apartment when Shaw began smoking marijuana and looking through her belongings, including drawers containing jewelry and clothing. When she confronted him and told him to leave, Shaw allegedly refused.

The victim told deputies she picked up Shaw’s backpack and walked toward the door in an attempt to make him leave. At that point, Shaw allegedly grabbed her shoulders, threw her onto a bed and began striking her with a closed fist.

The victim said Shaw then choked her to the point where she was unable to breathe while she attempted to fight back. After releasing his grip, Shaw allegedly punched her three to four times in the face.

Deputies reported observing multiple facial lacerations, a nose injury and markings around the victim’s neck consistent with strangulation. She was transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center for treatment.

While at the hospital, the victim provided additional details, stating that Shaw had been masturbating in her bathroom before the confrontation. She said she demanded he leave, which led to the alleged attack.

Shaw provided a different account to investigators after being advised of his rights. According to the report, he claimed the victim was intoxicated and struck him first, later hitting him with a broomstick. Deputies noted Shaw had minor injuries, including a cut on one knuckle and small lacerations on his arm.

The victim denied striking Shaw with the broom until after she was able to break free from the alleged choking. She told deputies she grabbed the broom from beside the bed and chased him from the apartment after the attack.

Shaw was arrested and charged with felony battery by strangulation and misdemeanor battery. He was transported to the Marion County Jail.

According to jail records, Shaw’s bond was set at $1,000 on the strangulation charge.