James Harrison

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison has been charged with assaulting his girlfriend.

Harrison, 29, of Franklin Park, was arrested Saturday after allegedly hitting 29-year-old Beth Tibbott at her home in Ohio Township, about 9 miles northwest of Pittsburgh.

Ohio Township police said the couple had been arguing before just before 1 p.m., when Tibbott locked herself in a bedroom, according to an affidavit.

While Tibbott was trying to call 911, Harrison broke down the door, took her cell phone and broke it in half, the affidavit said. Tibbott said Harrison then hit her across the face with an open hand and knocked off her glasses.

Police said Tibbott had "red marks" on her left cheek. She had contacted them after the alleged assault and said she was afraid of Harrison, police said.

Harrison drove from the house in a Hummer and was pulled over minutes later by Franklin Park police.

Harrison was arraigned on charges of simple assault and criminal mischief. He was released on his own recognizance pending a preliminary hearing Thursday.

An Ohio Township police officer reached by telephone Sunday declined comment to The Associated Press. A Steelers spokesman did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment.