The case centered on allegations from an adult victim who reported that a verbal argument turned physical. According to the DA’s Office, the victim said the defendant choked her and sexually assaulted her while she repeatedly told him no. She also reported that the next morning, the defendant choked her again when she tried to leave. The victim went to the hospital about a month after the alleged incident for neck pain. After hearing her account, a registered nurse asked to call police so a report could be made. During trial, prosecutors presented testimony about why victims of intimate partner violence may stay with an abuser after an assault. The DA’s Office said the victim testified that she feared for her life, was planning an escape, and left only after the defendant was arrested. Jurors also heard from a couples counselor who had given the victim a safety plan two years before the alleged assaults, a concerned family member, two registered nurses, and an expert on intimate partner violence. Because the jury found the defendant not guilty, the DA’s Office said the person is now eligible for an expunction. The office will not release the defendant’s name or photo. The DA’s Office thanked the jury, the Mansfield Police Department, and medical professionals involved in the case.