A Dominican Republic national living in Antigua says she is beginning to feel safer after police arrested the man accused of brutally assaulting her last month.

Crizzel Alexandra Mateo Javier, 25, was attacked on 26 August during a dispute in which she was struck on the head with a piece of wood and left unconscious. The incident took place in front of her young son.

After weeks of fear, police confirmed that the suspect is now in custody. Javier said the arrest has eased her anxiety but stressed the case is not over, with a court hearing set for 16 September.

She thanked the media for highlighting her ordeal, which she said brought global attention and support, and urged other women facing abuse to speak out.

“I am stronger now, but I still want protection and justice,” she said.

Javier, who moved to Antigua a year ago in search of a better life for her son, continues to deal with the physical and emotional scars of the attack.