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Florida News Anchor Accused Of Assaulting Pregnant Woman
Marco Villareal, an anchor for WLFA Channel 8, will not be returning to his position at the station until the assault charges brought against him are fully investigated.
A TV anchor is Florida is accused of battering a pregnant woman who turned down a kiss.
Marco Villarreal, a 37-year-old news anchor with WFLA-Ch. 8 was arrested at about 7:42 p.m. on March 24 after police were called to his home. Villareal and the woman, who remains unnamed in reports, allegedly had been arguing while making dinner before the altercation turned violent, according to arrest reports. Villareal is then accused of throwing the woman against a wall after she turned down a kiss.
Police have redacted the nature of the relationship between the alleged victim and Villarreal. The report indicates that she was "visibly upset" but suffered no injuries following the incident. She denied medical assistance at the time.
Two children, who were home at the time, witnessed the scene and have given statements to police, according to The Tampa Bay Times.
Police did not find Villarreal at the home upon their arrival, but spoke with him when he returned. He did not provide a written statement.
WFLA, where Villarreal had been employed since 2016, announced in a statement that Villareal would not be featured on air until the case is resolved.
“WFLA morning anchor Marco Villarreal has been arrested and charged with aggravated battery,” the statement reads. “Villarreal will not be returning to our newscast until an investigation of the charges has concluded. WFLA will have no additional comment at this time.”
Villarreal was released on the Monday night after posting $7,500 bail.
