Deputies: Man battered ex-girlfriend while driving

A Bonita Springs man has been arrested after his ex-girlfriend said he forced her into his truck and beat her as he drove around town.

According to Lee County sheriff's reports, Efren A. Alvarez, 26, of 11741 Tangerine Road, kidnapped his ex-girlfriend Wednesday afternoon at the Bonita Springs Library on Pine Avenue. The report states that he met Norma Paz Peralta at the library to talk about their relationship.

When he arrived at the library Peralta said he had her come near the truck so they could talk. When she got close enough, Peralta said he grabbed her by the hair and wrists and forced her into the passenger seat. After trying to get away, she was grabbed again, and forced to drive with him, while Alvarez bit and hit her.

The two drove around Bonita Springs for some time, during which Alvarez threatened to run the truck into something. While driving southbound on U.S. 41, Peralta grabbed the steering while and jerked it to the side. When Alvarez let go of her to grab the wheel, she ran out of the truck.

The reports continues that Alvarez then exited the truck, grabbed her and begun dragging her to the truck. At that time passing motorists stopped and helped. Alvarez then fled in his truck.

Alvarez has been charged with battery and kidnapping. He remains in the Lee County Jail on $2,500 bond for each charge.