Traverse City Record-Eagle

Garfield Township

July 24, 2009

Man allegedly beat his girlfriend

FROM STAFF REPORTS

TRAVERSE CITY -- A Garfield Township man faces felony criminal charges for allegedly beating his live-in girlfriend with a piece of furniture.

Michael George Bellman, 44, is charged with felony assault with a dangerous weapon, interfering with electronic communication and aggravated domestic assault. He also is charged as a habitual offender.

Bellman was arrested July 18 after allegedly punching his girlfriend in the face, throwing her to the floor and striking her in the face with a metal stool. The incident broke the woman's jaw and she was treated at Munson Medical Center, court records show.

The victim tried to call for help, but Bellman allegedly took the phone from her. She ran to a neighbor's home and authorities were called to the scene.

If convicted, Bellman faces up to eight years in prison, twice the maximum recommended sentence because he is charged as a habitual offender. His criminal record includes convictions for cocaine possession, court records show.

Bellman will appear on Aug. 4 in 86th District Court in Traverse City for a preliminary examination.

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