Anchor Accused of Choking Wife; Rob Morrison to Face Charges Today
A television anchor accused of choking his wife has denied all claims and is fully cooperating with authorities in what his attorney said is "an unfortunate incident." Rob Morrison has worked for WNBC but now anchors WCBS' "This Morning" and "News at Noon."
Officers responded to a call from Morrison's mother-in-law about an argument in the home he shared with wife Ashley Morrison. When they arrived, they found Ashley with red marks around her neck and Rob bleeding from his face. Rob was taken into custody by police and charged with second-degree strangulation, threatening and disorderly conduct.
He posted $100,000 bail and has been released. He and Ashley have remained quiet about the ordeal and refuse to speak to the media.
"The Morrisons are confident that a full review of this matter will show that the allegations have been greatly exaggerated," a statement issued through the couple's attorney said. "While this matter is being discussed, Rob and Ashley hope that their family's privacy will be respected."
Police noted that even when Rob was taken into custody, he "made verbal threats to do his wife additional harm, which were overheard by arresting officers," the New York Daily News reported. "Officers did observe red marks on the victim's neck consistent with this allegation (of strangulation)" authorities said.
Both Morrisons work on TV; Rob hosts two programs on WCBS while Ashley works as an anchor for CBS' MoneyWatch. Neither reported to work on Monday, the day after the alleged incident. Rob is expected to go before a judge on Tuesday to learn of the official charges and what his punishment could be.
The two have one son together and reside in Connecticut. They papered their windows after the incident and have not been seen outside since; it is clear that neither wants any more publicity from the ordeal than has already been received. Yet with a court appearance and such a high profile couple, whether they can retain their privacy is unknown.