Morganton man arrested after assaulting girlfriend, infant

The Morganton Department of Public Safety (MDPS) arrested Shane Allen Curfman, 35, of Morganton, Sunday night, after he assaulted his girlfriend and her 1-month-old.

MDPS officers responded to UNC Health Blue Ridge Hospital to follow up on a reported domestic violence incident. While receiving medical treatment, the victim told police that her boyfriend, Curfman, assaulted her at their residence off Causby Road.

The victim reported that Curfman grabbed her hoodie, pulling it back and strangling her until she lost consciousness, causing her to drop her child onto the concrete.

Police observed visible injuries, including red marks on her neck, that were consistent with her account. After alerting the MDPS Criminal Investigations Division and the Department of Social Services, officers located and arrested Curfman at his residence.

Officers also discovered what appeared to be a marijuana growing operation inside the residence that may result in additional charges, pending investigation.

The Burke County Magistrate charged Curfman with felony assault by strangulation and three misdemeanors — assault on a child under 12, assault on a female, and a domestic violence charge. Authorities placed him in the custody of Burke County Jail under a 48-hour hold until a judge could set his release conditions.

On Monday, the court appointed John Alexander as Curfman’s attorney and scheduled his next court date for March 2.

On Tuesday, the court gave Curfman a $150,000 secured bond.

— JC