Marshalltown police took an Ottumwa man into custody Wednesday as a result of a domestic abuse third or subsequent offense charge, a Class D felony.

Joseph Dean Ashby, 37, was taken to Marshall County Jail after authorities determined he struck the victim several times in the head causing bruising and swelling, according to a criminal complaint and affidavit filed in Marshall County District Court.

At his initial appearance a magistrate ordered the defendant held on $5,000 cash or surety bond, issued a no contact order to protect the victim, and appointed a public defender to represent Ashby. His preliminary hearing is July 19.