Charges dropped against Orlando firefighter accused of choking ex-wife

ORLANDO, Fla. — Charges have been dropped against an Orlando firefighter accused of showing up at his ex-wife's home two months ago and trying to choke and strangle her.

Casey Preston was facing two felony charges and one misdemeanor charge of domestic battery, battery by strangulation and tampering with a witness to hamper communication to law enforcement.

But Channel 9's Kathi Belich was in court on Thursday when the charges were dropped against Preston.

It was alleged the incident happened when Preston was in uniform and driving a city vehicle. His ex-wife, Tamara, told law enforcement Preston got angry when she wouldn't answer personal questions, and he grabbed her and tried to choke her.

She said he then pushed her onto her bed, tightening his grip as she tried to get loose, making her gasp for air.

The ex-wife told police she was afraid she would die during the struggle. She told the deputy Preston turned her over, straddled her back and held her in a choke hold.

She said he then threatened her about bringing men around their children and then left.

Preston was arrested later that night after refusing to give a written statement.

Preston was back in court Thursday to get a court order keeping him away from his ex-wife modified because they have children together. His attorney said they dropped the charges at the last minute.

The State Attorney's Office said Preston's ex-wife won't cooperate with prosecutors, which is not uncommon in domestic violence cases.

"The hearing was canceled because the case will be dismissed by the end of the day because of a lack of evidence in this case," said defense attorney Aleisha Adamson.

City officials said the city is also investigating Preston but said it will be more difficult because the felony charges have been dropped

WFTV