Waco, TX – A 21-year-old Texas man has been arrested and charged after allegedly assaulting his pregnant girlfriend in an attempt to cause a miscarriage when she told him that he might not be the baby’s father. Authorities identified the suspect as Dominick Rangel, who was taken into custody by Waco Police earlier this week.
The Incident: Argument Turns Violent After Pregnancy Disclosure
According to an arrest affidavit, the incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon, shortly after Rangel’s girlfriend told him she was pregnant and that he might not be the father. The woman called police after Rangel allegedly became enraged and struck her multiple times while destroying property in their shared apartment.
Police said that Rangel and the victim had been in a relationship for five years and shared a young son. The couple had recently reconciled after a brief separation and were living together with the woman’s grandmother.
The affidavit stated that the confrontation began when Rangel questioned the woman about her family’s reaction if she “had a child with another man.” When she responded that her family would still support her, Rangel allegedly became violent, punching her several times in the back while continuing to shout at her.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
During the police interview, the woman told investigators she believed Rangel was intentionally trying to cause a miscarriage. She said he specifically targeted her back and lower body, expressing anger about the pregnancy and asking if she would consider getting an abortion.
“She believed him hitting her in the back was in an attempt to cause a miscarriage,” officers wrote in the affidavit.
Officers also reported that Rangel attempted to steal his son’s Social Security card from the apartment before police arrived. Authorities detained him at the scene without incident.
Police documented visible injuries consistent with the woman’s account and collected evidence from the apartment, including damaged property and witness statements from family members.
Charges and Court Proceedings
Rangel was charged with assault of a pregnant person, a felony offense under Texas law. He was booked into the McLennan County Jail on Wednesday and released later that day after posting a $5,000 bond.
Under Texas Penal Code § 22.01(b)(7), assault against a pregnant individual carries enhanced penalties due to the potential harm to both the mother and unborn child. Convictions can result in significant jail time, fines, and mandatory counseling.
Authorities have not confirmed whether additional charges—such as attempted injury to an unborn child—will be pursued as the investigation continues.
Statements and Reactions
The Waco Police Department has not released an official public statement beyond confirming Rangel’s arrest. The victim, who remains unnamed, told investigators she feared for her safety and the safety of her unborn child. She declined hospital transport at the scene but later sought medical evaluation for potential injuries related to the assault.
Neighbors reportedly heard shouting and breaking objects during the altercation but did not intervene until after officers arrived.
Domestic violence advocates in Waco have emphasized that abuse during pregnancy significantly increases risks to both the mother and child. Experts note that such cases are deeply underreported, as victims often feel trapped in long-term relationships or fear retaliation.
Background and Legal Context
According to state data, incidents of domestic violence involving pregnant women have been rising across Texas in recent years. Advocacy organizations such as the Texas Council on Family Violence have urged for stronger awareness campaigns and improved protective services for expectant mothers facing abuse.
In this case, the affidavit suggests that Rangel’s motivation stemmed from jealousy and uncertainty over paternity, leading to what police described as a deliberate attempt to harm the pregnancy.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Rangel’s next court appearance is expected later this month in McLennan County Court. The case remains under active investigation by the Waco Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office, which will determine whether further charges are warranted.
The victim is reportedly staying with family members while continuing prenatal care and receiving support services from local domestic violence advocates.
Conclusion
The case of Dominick Rangel underscores the dangers faced by pregnant women in abusive relationships and the need for early intervention and legal accountability. As prosecutors prepare to present their case, officials hope this incident will raise awareness about protecting expectant mothers from domestic violence.
What are your thoughts on this case? Share your opinions in the comments below.
