A pregnant woman was subjected to a horrifying ordeal when her partner allegedly dragged her out of bed, choked her, and forced her to swallow a burning marijuana blunt. The man, identified as 25-year-old Benjamin Schroeder, now faces serious charges, but the emotional and physical scars left on the victim paint a heartbreaking picture of domestic abuse.
A Morning Turned Into a Nightmare
It started like any other day. The woman, several months pregnant, was resting in bed when, out of nowhere, Schroeder allegedly yanked her up by the wrists and pulled her toward the bathroom. According to police, he then started choking her before making a bizarre statement: “I need to wash your feet.”
What followed, however, was much more unsettling. According to reports, Schroeder had her swallow a smoking blunt. She eventually needed medical assistance for the terrible damage the burning cigar caused inside her throat. She will always remember the stress of the event, even though physicians were able to establish that her baby was uninjured.
Not the First Time She Was Hurt
Sadly, this wasn’t the first time she had been abused. The victim told authorities that just two days earlier, Schroeder had strangled her and burned her. This time, she reached out for help. Police in Wisconsin arrested Schroeder, and he was charged with multiple counts, including aggravated battery of a pregnant woman and domestic battery.
Despite the horrifying details of the case, Schroeder was granted pretrial release. Now, many are questioning how someone accused of such violent acts could be allowed to walk free while his victim lives in fear.
A Community in Shock
The news has sent shockwaves through Cherry Valley. Domestic violence advocates are speaking out, emphasizing how vulnerable pregnant women can be in abusive relationships. Studies show that intimate partner violence often increases during pregnancy, as controlling partners use fear and physical harm to maintain power over their victims.
“What happened to this woman is devastating, but unfortunately, it’s not uncommon,” said one advocate. “Pregnant women are at an increased risk of violence, and we need stronger protections in place.”
The Hidden Danger of Domestic Violence During Pregnancy
This case sheds light on a disturbing reality—violence against pregnant women is more common than many realize. A study conducted in Mumbai slums found that 15% of pregnant women reported experiencing some form of intimate partner violence, whether it was physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Even more alarming, many of these women believed that their partner’s actions were somehow justified.
Unfortunately, stories like this are playing out all over the world. In Assam, India, a pregnant woman and her two sisters were reportedly stripped and beaten inside a police station. The physical injuries were so severe that the pregnant woman later lost her baby.
These horrifying cases are a reminder that pregnancy does not protect women from abuse—in some cases, it makes them even more vulnerable.
Finding a Way Out: Help for Victims
For many women trapped in abusive relationships, escaping is easier said than done. Fear, financial dependence, and concern for their child’s safety often hold them back. But no one should have to endure violence, especially during pregnancy.
Organizations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-SAFE) provide support and resources for those in danger. Shelters and advocacy groups can also help survivors find safety and legal assistance.
This pregnant woman’s ordeal is heartbreaking, but it serves as a powerful reminder: No one should suffer in silence. If you or someone you know is in danger, help is available.