Man returns from church, attacks girlfriend, deputies say

A man was arrested Monday on charges he attacked his live-in girlfriend after he returned home from church, deputies said.

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office responded shortly after 12:30 p.m. to 1386 Gold Road. The victim told deputies her boyfriend had been abusive throughout the day Sunday, according to an arrest report.

Deputies noticed she had a black eye, a bruised nose, swelling and bruising on her arms and red marks around her neck. The injuries were evident 15 hours after she was assaulted, deputies said.

Timothy McGinnis, 40, said he accidentally fell into the victim when he got out of his chair, causing her to fall into the closet. He also said the black eye came from when he tried to put his arm around her and inadvertently struck her, deputies said.

The victim told authorities McGinnis had consumed large amounts of rum and beer throughout the day and at one time told her, "you need to be submissive and conform as my wife," according to the arrest report.

He was charged with domestic battery.