Ohio Restaurateur Accused of Forcing Towel Down Girlfriend’s Throat, Mocking Her Prayers During Brutal Attack, Prosecutors Say
CLEVELAND, OHIO — A well-known Ohio restaurateur is facing serious charges after prosecutors say he brutally attacked his girlfriend, forcing a towel down her throat, biting her nose, and mocking her as she prayed for her life.
According to the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office, Robert “Bobby” George, 44, allegedly told the victim, “You think God is going to help you?” as he carried out the assault at their Lakewood home in June 2024.
Prosecutors Detail Shocking Assault
Court records reviewed by Cleveland.com describe the attack as lasting several hours, during which George allegedly choked, hit, and threw the 25-year-old woman around their home.
He reportedly spit in her face, forced a towel into her mouth, and refused to let her leave.
“He did knowingly attempt to cause or create a substantial risk of physical harm … by means of strangulation,” reads the indictment, confirming that George and the victim were in a dating relationship at the time.
Authorities say the woman was praying in a closet when George mocked her faith, allegedly sneering, “You think God is going to help you?” before resuming his attack.
High-Profile Figure in Cleveland’s Restaurant Scene
George is the owner of TownHall and Barley House, two popular bars and restaurants in Cleveland’s nightlife district.
He was initially charged with attempted murder, rape, and multiple felonies, but prosecutors now confirm he plans to plead guilty to attempted strangulation — allowing him to skip grand jury proceedings and move directly toward sentencing.
Prosecutors said the plea deal was crafted after extensive consultation with the victim.
“I can’t tell you how much respect I have for this young woman and everything she has gone through,” said Jefferson County Prosecutor Jane Hanlin, who took over the case after Cuyahoga County’s prosecutor recused himself due to prior business ties with George.
Pattern of Abuse Over Months
The victim told investigators George had been physically and sexually assaulting her repeatedly from November 2023 through July 2024.
Court filings describe escalating violence, including multiple incidents where George allegedly trapped her inside the home and choked her until she nearly lost consciousness.
Business Fallout and Ongoing Case
Since his arrest, George has reportedly lost $3.5 million in state funding intended for a $35 million entertainment complex he planned to build near the Cuyahoga River.
He is currently out on bond as prosecutors finalize his plea deal. A sentencing hearing is expected to be scheduled soon.
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