ROGERSVILLE — A Hawkins County man accused of biting and beating his girlfriend into unconsciousness during an argument Tuesday near Rogersville was charged with aggravated assault and public intoxication.
Shortly before 7:30 p.m. Tuesday Hawkins County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Mike Allen was dispatched to an assault in progress at the TVA Pond access road just south of Rogersville.
Allen stated in his report that upon his arrival he observed a male and a female laying on the ground near the river bank, both of whom appeared to be unconscious.
Allen was able to rouse the male, identified as Ryan Michael Hoe, 30, 180 Old Highway Road, Rogersville. Hoe was "very unsteady on his feet and spoke with slurred speech," and allegedly admitted he’d been drinking, Allen said.
The female, identified as Lygeia Smith, reportedly remained unconscious.
"She had several abrasions on her legs and arms, a bite mark on her left arm, and several contusions to her face and head," Allen said. "Mr. Hoe advised that they had gotten into an argument over some past issues and it turned physical. He only advised that he had punched her several times and they bit one another during the altercation."
Smith was transported by Hawkins County EMS to the Hawkins County Memorial Hospital emergency room for treatment.
Hoe was released on bond following his arraignment in Hawkins County Sessions Court Wednesday.