Buckman Springs
A 42-year-old mechanic pleaded guilty Tuesday to assault and sexual battery against a woman who was choked to unconsciousness.
Ronald Elliot Porter of Escondido entered his plea before San Diego Superior Court Judge Jesus Rodriguez. His trial had been scheduled to begin next Tuesday.
The incident occurred Oct. 29 when Porter picked up a 29-year-old woman who was hitchhiking on El Cajon Boulevard and took her to the Buckman Springs area of East County, where he allegedly choked her with his hands.
Rodriguez dismissed another sexual assault charge and a false imprisonment charge against Porter.
Sentencing is set for April 4. Porter faces a maximum four-year term in state prison. Porter will have to register as a sex offender once he is released from custody.
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