Iowa City man accused of punching girlfriend as she tried to call 911

A 40-year old Iowa City man was arrested early Friday morning after repeatedly striking his girlfriend when she attempted to call 911.

Effrin Vander Hobbs, of 1100 Arthur St. No. 1, became involved in a verbal argument with the woman when she locked him out of their residence, authorities said.

According to a police report, Hobbs broke in through the bedroom window while she was dialing 911 and punched her in the face, taking the phone. Hobbs repeatedly struck the woman, causing pain and abrasions, police said.

When police arrived around 1 a.m., Hobbs admitted he was involved in a fight and told police he had been living with the woman for three months.

He is charged with domestic abuse assault without intent causing injury, a serious misdemeanor.