A Phoenix man, Timothy James Wood, 36, stands accused of multiple felonies after allegations of repeatedly assaulting and sexually assaulting his girlfriend, whom he allegedly kept captive in a shed for two weeks. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, the victim appeared on her neighbor's doorstep with noticeable injuries, including black eyes, bruises, and a cut, leading to Wood's arrest on July 2.
In her desperate bid to find safety, the victim reportedly managed to escape through the back of the shed, which had been secured with chains and bricks by her alleged captor. FOX 10 Phoenix's coverage of the prosecution's statement in court described a scene where the victim was "held her captive for over 14 days, imprisoned in a shed" and subjected to terrifying threats and abuse. This included being buried in a hole underneath the shed and threats to her life.
During his initial court appearance, Wood challenged the accusations: "These are some crazy allegations. I don't ... that's not me," he claimed, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. Nonetheless, Wood remains in jail with a bond set at $150,000 cash-only, and a past record that, according to the same source, includes a year in prison for attempted aggravated domestic violence in 2010.
Further details provided by AZFamily included that the woman, recently evicted, had been living in a shed behind the home of Wood's father and claimed to have been restrained with a tow strap around her ankle. To seemingly bolster his denial, Wood told AZFamily, "She just got out of the loony bin. ... She has these episodes, and I don’t know I’m supposed to call her mom." However, police found evidence supporting the victim's claims in the shed.
Assistance for individuals experiencing similar situations can be sought. Those in need of help are encouraged to contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or text START to 88788. Phoenix also offers specific domestic violence resources for its residents.
