Carlos Henriquez, Mass. State Rep., released on bail, denies kidnapping and assault accusations

(CBS/AP) BOSTON - After being released on bail, Massachusetts State Rep. Carlos Henriquez released a statement Monday night proclaiming his innocence against accusations that he assaulted and kidnapped a woman last weekend, CBS Boston reports.

The first-term state representative pleaded not guilty at his arraignment on Monday in Roxbury District Court on charges of domestic kidnapping, witness intimidation and larceny under $200. He was released on $1,000 bail.

In the statement, Henriquez thanked his supporters and expressed his personal and public mission against domestic violence.

"I have been accused of some serious charges, these allegations are completely untrue," Henriquez said. "I have dedicated myself to protecting women, not abusing or assaulting them. Putting my hands on a woman is contradictory to my upbringing and my own morals."

The Boston Democrat was arrested around 4 a.m. Sunday at his home in Dorchester after an alleged altercation with girlfriend Katherine Gonzalves, CBS Boston reported.

Police said Gonzalves jumped out of a car near Northeastern University in Boston and told police Henriquez had punched her and held her in the car against her will.

CBS Boston reports that Gonzalves had scuffs on her right shin and multiple bruises on her arms and wrists, according to the report. Henriquez was eventually tracked down at his home after Gonzalves reported the alleged incident to police.

Henriquez, 35, was ordered to stay away from UMass-Boston, where Gonzalves attends school, and from two other addresses in Somerville and Arlington.

Suffolk County prosecutors said that because it appears the alleged assault occurred in Arlington and not Boston, that charges will be moved to Middlesex County. Henriquez is due back in court September 27.

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July 9, 2012 - Carlos Henriquez, Mass. State Rep., accused of assaulting woman, holding her against her will