High Springs Man Released on Bond After Attacking and Threatening to Kill Family Member

Michael Barnard, 46, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with domestic battery by strangulation. 

Barnard was yelling at the victim for being unemployed and broke down her door. 

Barnard reportedly grabbed the victim’s phone and pushed her to the ground. As the victim was trying to get her phone back, Barnard punched her and began choking her. 

The victim told police she thought Barnard was going to kill her, and he said he wanted to “end her.” 

Barnard claimed the victim was “attacking him,” stating he “had his hands up in defense.” 

The victim had visible injuries on her face. 

Barnard had a cut on his hand. The victim stated she did whatever she could to get Barnard off her in self-defense.  

Barnard was released after posting a $10,000 bond.  

Barnard has been ordered to not contact the victim and not possess any weapons.