Staff Report

Luke M. Cabiya

COLUMBIA CITY — A Columbia City man was arrested for allegedly battering a person who was hospitalized due to their injuries.

Luke M. Cabiya, 31, 4614 E. Old Trail Road Lot 15, Columbia City, is charged with battery resulting in serious bodily injury, a level 5 felony.

On Sept. 21, Whitley County Sheriff’s Office deputies received a report of an assault which occurred in Columbia City. Deputies learned from witnesses that Cabiya jumped a man, punching him on the left side of his face. The man was eventually taken to Parkview Regional due to his injuries.

According to court documents, neighbors stated Cabiya had been threatening the man for weeks. Upon speaking with Cabiya, deputies noticed he was profusely sweating and had small cuts on his right hand. Both of his hands were also swollen. A portable breath test on Cabiya resulted in a 0.26 BrAC. Deputies took Cabiya to Parkview Whitley for medical clearance due to his high level of intoxication.

One of the deputies then spoke with the man while he was hospitalized. The man said he had several broken facial bones and would need plastic surgery. He positively identified Cabiya as the individual who battered him. The man said Cabiya repeatedly punched him, causing the man to lose consciousness.

Cabiya has already been arrested in Whitley County and released on bond.