ROCKLAND — A St. George man who was released from jail in October after serving a sentence for a domestic violence assault was charged again for allegedly choking the same woman.

Joel Swain, 39, of St. George, was arrested by Knox County Sheriff Deputy Jeremy Joslyn and charged with domestic violence assault, with priors, obstructing report of a crime, and criminal mischief. Swain made his initial appearance in Knox County Unified Court Dec. 16 and was denied bail by Judge Susan Sparaco until a hearing is held about revoking his probation.

According to court documents, Joslyn responded to an incident at a residence where the victim reported that during an argument Swain tried to choke her. She had asked Swain to leave the residence several times since he was yelling, destroying things in the house, and slamming doors. Swain finally left the house when the victim called 911.

Once outside, Swain got into the victim’s vehicle and when she told him to get out he grabbed her by the throat, documents said. He then pushed her against the car so she was unable to move away. A neighbor heard the yelling and screaming and came to the scene and pulled Swain off the victim, according to court documents.

Neighbors told police that they feared for the victim’s safety. They also reported that Swain had been drinking, said the police report.

Joslyn transported Swain to the Knox County Jail. His next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 12.

Sarah Shepherd can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com