Policeman arrested for “beating” pregnant live-in partner

CEBU, Philippines -  The Investigation and Detective Management Branch arrested a police officer for allegedly beating his two months pregnant live-in partner early morning yesterday inside the abandoned Fuente Police Station in Cebu City.

PO2 Carlo Balasoto, assigned at the Fuente Police Station, is now detained at the Cebu City Police Office pending the filing of a case in court.

The arrest stemmed from a complaint filed by his 26-year-old live-in partner from barangay Labangon.

As alleged, Balasoto dragged his partner toward the abandoned Fuente Police Station and there punched and choked her.

Balasoto allegedly even took her to a secluded area in barangay Punta Princesa where he allegedly threatened to harm her.

The woman reported the incident when Balasoto went back to the police station.

Upon learning of the incident, Chief Insp. Alexis Relado, IDMB chief, immediately called Insp. Isagani Pugoy, deputy chief of the Fuente Police Station, and ordered the turnover of Balasoto to the office.

Balasoto was disarmed of his personal 9mm pistol.

Relado said his office has received reports about Balasoto’s use of illegal drugs.

“Naa me nadawat nga tigamitan siya pero dili lang una mi mo-confirm kay wala pa’y resulta sa drug test,” Relado said.

Relado said the woman is uncertain whether to pursue the filing of a case against Balasoto but if proven positive of drugs, the IDMB will file an administrative case against him.

“He will be released maybe after the reglementary period but amo siyang filan ug administrative case kung ma-positive kay ang illegal drugs is a grave offense,” Relado said.  (FREEMAN)