Nikoda Lynn Neff

KOSCIUSKO — A Nappanee woman was arrested after choking a child.

Nikoda Lynn Neff, 29, 555 N. Locke St., Nappanee, is being charged with battery to a person less than 14 years of age by a person at least 18 years of age; and domestic battery with a child under 16 present, both level 6 felonies.

According to the affidavit of probable cause, an officer with the Kosciusko County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a residence regarding a family altercation. Upon arrival, the officer found that Neff had an active warrant in Kosciusko County.

Neff’s father said he had brought a minor to the residence for a visit when Neff became angry at the short length of the visit. Neff walked into the residence and brought a female minor outside. Neff then picked the minor up by the neck, choking her. Neff also threatened to kill the minor if her father came near her. Neff then left the residence with the female minor.

The child Neff’s father brought with him to the residence witnessed Neff commit the battery. The officer also spoke with the female minor, who said that when Neff picked her up by the neck, it caused difficulty breathing and throat pain.

Neff has already been arrested and released on her own recognizance. She has an initial hearing date at 1 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, in Kosciusko Superior II Court.