Holmes Beach police arrested Apollo Beach resident Georjeanna Thomas, 50, March 14 on a third-degree felony for allegedly tampering with a victim by hindering communication with law enforcement.
Thomas also faces two first-degree misdemeanors for alleged battery and criminal mischief.
Two Holmes Beach Police Department officers responded to reports of a fight in the 4300 block of Gulf Drive.
A woman told police that she and Thomas were drinking alcohol together when Thomas began to leave. The woman said she tried to convince Thomas to stay due to her level of intoxication.
The woman said Thomas then choked and struck her and broke her cellphone.
An officer noted in a report redness and bruising indicative of choking.
Another officer handcuffed Thomas and transported the woman to the Manatee County jail, where she was released the same day after posting $2,500 bond.
The next day, the other party told police she did not want to press charges and declined to provide a statement. She was advised to call the state attorney’s office to dismiss the charges.
If the charges are pursued and Thomas is convicted, punishment for a third-degree felony includes up to five years in prison, five years of probation and up to a $5,000 fine.
Punishments for a first-degree misdemeanor charge include one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
An arraignment is scheduled for 9 a.m. Friday, March 8, at the Manatee County Judicial Center, 1051 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton.