Geraldo Rivera’s Son Arrested After Allegedly Choking Woman Until She Nearly Fainted
May 3 2018, Published 4:32 p.m. ET
TV journalist Geraldo Rivera’s son was released without bail this Wednesday after being arrested a day prior on charges of assault, criminal obstruction of breathing, aggravated harassment, attempted assault and harassment charges.
As RadarOnline.com has learned from a PEOPLE report, Cruz Rivera was accused of biting a woman on her hand and leg and even choked her until she nearly lost consciousness. She had allegedly stopped by his Washington Heights apartment to collect some of her belongings.
Cruz’s attorney, Arthur Aidala, disputed the allegations, saying in a statement to the publication: “Although we are taking this very seriously, we are cautiously optimistic that when the dust settles, Cruz Rivera will be able to move on with his life with little interruption.”
After the incident, a neighbor called 911 saying the couple was having a “bad fight.” According to Cruz’s lawyer, however, the female victim has since “sent our client text messages that she was sorry about this and that it won’t go any further and that she loves him.”
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Meanwhile, Arthur told PEOPLE that talk show host Geraldo, 74, is “very upset” about the allegations against his son, Cruz, 30.
“Anyone whose child is arrested would be upset,” the attorney — who’s been a longtime family friend —explained. “Because these are claims of domestic violence, which Geraldo feels very strongly about and is strongly against, it takes it to a different level. Now that the facts are out, it seems this was a misunderstanding.”
Cruz Rivera has yet to enter a plea. He is scheduled back in court this coming June.
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