Parkland, FL – A 27-year-old public defender in Florida has been arrested for allegedly strangling and spitting on his pregnant girlfriend following an argument that took place shortly after the two attended an ultrasound appointment together. The accused, Rafe Asa Chikovsky, faces domestic battery by strangulation and aggravated battery on a pregnant person charges, according to court records.
The Incident: Assault After Ultrasound Appointment
According to a probable cause affidavit from the Parkland Police Department, officers responded to a call around 4:35 p.m. on October 20 regarding a possible domestic battery incident at a residence on the 11000 block of North Heron Bay Boulevard, located roughly 45 miles north of Miami.
When officers arrived, they found the visibly distraught victim, who claimed that she and Chikovsky had been arguing while driving back to her home. During the argument, Chikovsky allegedly demanded that she perform oral sex on him. Despite repeatedly refusing, the victim told police she eventually “gave in to his request” due to his persistence.
Once at her home, the couple continued arguing, and Chikovsky allegedly spit in her face multiple times before pushing her to the ground repeatedly.
“He grabbed the back of her sweater and pulled it tight against the front of her neck, which made it hard for her to breathe,” the affidavit states.
The victim said the altercation happened after Chikovsky attended her recent ultrasound appointment, where he was fully aware of her pregnancy.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
Police officers documented visible injuries on the victim, including a long red mark on her neck consistent with strangulation and multiple contusions on her elbows, legs, and chest. She also described a history of physical abuse during their relationship.
“The victim advised that for the past year, Chikovsky has been physically aggressive with her and she has had injuries on multiple occasions that she just forgave,” officers wrote in the affidavit.
The woman told investigators that after the fight subsided, the pair attempted to take a nap, but Chikovsky allegedly initiated sexual activity without her consent. The report notes she clarified that while she did not label the incident as rape, she felt uncomfortable and indicated non-consensual behavior through her reactions.
Following this second altercation, Chikovsky allegedly resumed physical violence, choking her with her own sweater until she struggled to breathe.
Responding officers said the physical evidence on the victim aligned with her statement. First responders photographed injuries that corroborated her account, including the red mark on her throat.
Court Proceedings and Legal Charges
Chikovsky was arrested and booked into the Broward County Jail, where he was charged with:
- Domestic battery by strangulation (felony)
- Aggravated battery on a pregnant person (felony)
Court documents show that he was released shortly after posting 10% of his $15,000 bond. A court date has not yet been announced.
The Broward County Public Defender’s Office, where Chikovsky is employed, has not publicly commented on the case. It remains unclear whether he has been placed on administrative leave or faces internal disciplinary review.
Statements and Reactions
Police say the victim expressed fear for her safety, citing previous incidents where Chikovsky had been “physically aggressive” but she chose not to report him. The latest incident, she said, felt “more violent than usual” and came during a particularly vulnerable period in her pregnancy.
“She stated that he has hurt her before, but this time she thought he might actually kill her,” a responding officer wrote.
Law enforcement emphasized that domestic violence cases involving pregnant victims are treated with heightened seriousness under Florida law, due to the increased risk to both the mother and unborn child.
Background and Legal Context
Under Florida Statute §784.041(2)(b), domestic battery by strangulation is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison. Aggravated battery on a pregnant person, however, carries more severe penalties and is classified as a second-degree felony, with potential imprisonment of up to 15 years.
Experts note that cases involving professionals in legal or public service roles, such as Chikovsky, are subject to additional scrutiny due to the trust and ethical standards required in their positions.
The Florida Bar Association could also initiate disciplinary action depending on the outcome of the criminal proceedings.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Chikovsky’s case remains active, with prosecutors currently reviewing police evidence, photographs, and statements for formal filing of charges. The State Attorney’s Office will determine whether additional counts—such as coercion or sexual battery—will be added.
The victim is reportedly cooperating fully with investigators and has sought a protective order against Chikovsky.
Conclusion
The allegations against Rafe Asa Chikovsky have stunned the local legal community and raised concerns about domestic abuse within professional circles. As the case proceeds through the courts, prosecutors say they intend to seek full accountability for the assault on a pregnant woman.
What are your thoughts on this case and the legal consequences he should face? Share your opinions in the comments below.
