Man, 54, Jailed For Trying To Forcibly Exorcise Devil Out Of His 80-Year-Old Girlfriend

A 54-year-old Florida man who allegedly sought to perform an exorcism to “get the devil out” of his 80-year-old girlfriend is facing criminal charges for physically restraining his live-in companion against her will, police report.

According to a complaint affidavit, the victim told Pasco County Sheriff’s Office deputies that David Benes “held her down” late Monday evening in the home they share outside Tampa (the couple has been in a relationship for three years).

The woman told investigators that Benes was trying to “exorcise her and get the devil out of her” against her will. The affidavit does not describe why Benes believed an exorcism was warranted. The woman called 911 yesterday after Benes allegedly resumed his “exorcising” attempts.

Officers noted that the octogenarian had bruises and scratches on her arms, injuries that occurred during the confrontation with Benes. The woman also told deputies that Benes had removed batteries from the home's phones so that she could not call police or her daughter. He also allegedly took her car keys and “dismantled” the garage door.

Benes, who appeared intoxicated, was passed out on a couch when first contacted by deputies. He subsequently stated that he was too drunk to recall what had transpired, though he did claim to have been “beat up” on the back and shoulders by the elderly woman.

Seen in the above mug shot, Benes was arrested yesterday on several charges, including battery on a person 65 years or older and false imprisonment. He is currently locked up in the county jail.