City man accused of assaulting woman while out on bond

BRIDGEPORT — A local man out on bond for allegedly choking his ex-girlfriend cut off his GPS anklet, allegedly broke into her home with a hammer and punched her in the face in front of her children, according to police.

Giovani Rios, 28, was charged Friday with third-degree assault, breach of peace, risk of injury to children and violating a protective order.

“I have mental health issues and I cut the bracelet (GPS) off,” Rios said from his cell in the lockup of the Golden Hill Street courthouse during his arraignment Friday afternoon despite repeated warnings to remain silent by Superior Court Judge Peter McShane.

“I’m only asking you to be lenient,” Rios continued. “If you allow me to be on the street, I will gladly appreciate it.”

However, Senior Assistant State’s Attorney Pamela Esposito argued that Rios had already violated one bond and urged the judge to ignore

Rios’ pleas.

McShane agreed and ordered Rios held in lieu of $300,000 bond. He continued the case to March 31 and further ordered Rios to undergo mental health screening.

On March 13, Rios was released after posting $50,000 bond on charges of second-degree strangulation, disorderly conduct and sale of narcotics, according to court records. He was issued a protective order that said he was to stay away from his ex-girlfriend.

Police said shortly after 2 a.m. Friday, Rios went to his ex-girlfriend’s home after cutting off his GPS anklet and began banging on her apartment door with a hammer.

Once inside the apartment, police said Rios allegedly assaulted the victim as she telephoned police, telling her, “Watch what is going to happen when I get out of jail.”

He then left the apartment, police said.

Officer Jammal Vaughn later spotted Rios a short distance away and convinced him to surrender by pointing a Taser at him, police said.