Preston T. Harris-Cook, 18, New London, was charged with physical abuse of a child, disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia.
On Aug. 21, New London Police Officer Ben Schmidt was dispatched to the area behind Wal-Mart in response to a reported altercation.
When he arrived, Schmidt reported seeing Harris-Cook holding a bicycle and standing over a 16-year-old girl.
The girl appeared to have been crying, and she had red marks on her neck, chest and shoulders. However, she told Schmidt that nothing had happened.
New London Police Sgt. Earl Ruckdashel arrived at the scene to assist. The woman, who had called regarding the incident, told Ruckdashel that she had seen Harris-Cook hit the girl in the face. Another witness also reported seeing Harris-Cook hit her.
While questioning Harris-Cook, police reported finding a pot pipe in his possession.