Man arrested after assault allegations

A man is facing serious charges after being accused of assaulting a woman by tying her to a pole and whipping her.

District Court Judge Cathy Prewitt signed the warrant after the McCreary County Attorney’s Office obtained information from the victim of an alleged assault that occurred Friday around 10:00 a.m.

According to the warrant Jonathan Stephens, of Whitley City, is accused of zip-tying the victim to a metal pole, securing her around the throat, wrists and legs, and tightening the restraints so she suffered from partial lack of oxygen and pain.

Stephens then allegedly pressed the muzzle of a shotgun to her stomach and struck her with a whip.

Stephens is charged with Assault 4th Degree, a misdemeanor, as well as Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree and Unlawful Imprisonment 1st Degree, both Class D felonies.

Kentucky State Police Trooper Desmond Brittle served the warrant on Sunday, and Stephens was lodged in the Wayne County Detention Center.