Coralville Man Accused of Repeatedly Assaulting Girlfriend

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A 28-year-old Coralville man named Patrick Kabunda was arrested and charged with multiple counts, including domestic abuse assault causing injury, obstruction of emergency communications, and child endangerment, after allegedly striking his girlfriend multiple times in the head, kicking her in the back, and taking her cellphone to prevent her from calling for help.

Why it matters

Domestic violence cases like this highlight the ongoing need for greater awareness, prevention, and support services to protect victims and hold abusers accountable. The involvement of children in the home also raises concerns about the broader impacts on families and the community.

The details

According to the arrest report, Kabunda was seen on video early Sunday morning striking his girlfriend with a closed fist multiple times in the head. He then allegedly kicked the woman in the back. Shortly afterwards, Kabunda's girlfriend was sitting on the couch holding one of her children when he reportedly struck her in the head again. Kabunda allegedly took the woman's cellphone and fled the residence, leaving her without a way to call 911 for help. She eventually walked the few blocks to the police station to report the incident.

• The alleged incidents occurred early Sunday morning.

What’s next

Kabunda is scheduled to appear in court next week, where a judge will determine whether to allow him to be released on bail pending trial.