Coral Springs police arrest woman following a domestic dispute that leaves a man with visible neck and facial injuries
Coral Springs, Florida – Police in Coral Springs arrested a woman following a domestic dispute that left a man with visible injuries, including bruising on his face and neck, a bite mark on his left arm, and injuries to both knees. The incident, which took place on December 31, involved the man’s ex-girlfriend, 39-year-old Kathia Lopez, of Coral Springs, according to official arrest reports.
The victim told officers that he and Lopez had been in a relationship for about two years, which ended just four days prior to the confrontation. He explained that Lopez came to his apartment that day, accompanied by another man, to retrieve a tablet. Although he handed the device to her through the door, he did not allow her inside. The man reported that Lopez forcibly pushed past him and entered the apartment without consent, despite being repeatedly told to leave.
The situation escalated when the man, fearing that Lopez might become violent, grabbed a bottle of pepper spray. He warned her to stay away, but according to the report, Lopez punched him in the face, prompting him to use the spray in self-defense. The confrontation reportedly continued even after the effects of the pepper spray wore off. Lopez allegedly struck the man again in the face and ribs, causing him to deploy the spray a second time.
The man told police that he then retreated into a bedroom and locked the door to protect himself. Lopez reportedly broke the lock and entered the bedroom. Although the man was able to convince her to leave, she allegedly punched him once more after exiting the room. The struggle continued on the floor, during which the man attempted to restrain Lopez. During this altercation, police say Lopez placed the victim in a chokehold, restricting his breathing until he was able to push her off. Officers noted that the injuries to the man’s neck were consistent with strangulation.
The victim told authorities that he delayed calling 911 in hopes of resolving the situation without law enforcement involvement. When officers arrived, they documented injuries consistent with the man’s account, including facial bruising, neck injuries, and other marks consistent with a physical altercation.
When located and questioned, Lopez told officers that she had previously lived at the apartment but had moved out several days earlier. She admitted to arriving with a friend to retrieve a package but denied forcing entry, claiming she had the right to be inside. However, she acknowledged that a physical altercation occurred during the visit.
Following the investigation, Lopez was arrested and transported to the Broward Sheriff’s Office Main Jail. She faces charges of domestic battery by strangulation and burglary with assault or battery. She has been ordered to have no contact with the victim.
City officials reminded residents that domestic disputes can escalate quickly and that law enforcement is available to assist in potentially dangerous situations. Authorities encouraged anyone experiencing similar circumstances to seek help immediately to prevent injuries and ensure safety for all parties involved.
The Coral Springs Police Department continues to monitor domestic incidents and works closely with local courts to ensure that protective measures are in place for victims. Lopez’s arrest underscores the serious legal consequences of domestic violence and unauthorized entry into a residence, highlighting the importance of involving authorities promptly in such situations.
For now, the victim is recovering from his injuries, and Lopez remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.
