A Billings man is behind bars in Butte for allegedly assaulting a 60-year-old woman over the course of several hours and holding her captive.

James Michael Stewart, 38, made his initial appearance before Judge Bob Lee Friday afternoon. He was arrested Thursday night.

Police responded to a report of a traffic accident in the Excelsior Street area, according to the county attorney’s office. 

A woman reports that Stewart hit her vehicle and got out and yelled at her. That's when she reportedly noticed blood on his hands and a female with a bloody bruised face sitting in a van. Stewart fled the scene before police arrived.  He was later arrested. 

The victim reported that Stewart repeatedly beat her through the night and when trying to escape he would restrain her.

In the complaint he is accused of hitting, choking, twisting her head, grabbing her and knocking her down.

He is charged him with felony partner or family member assault, unlawful restraint and criminal mischief. 

Bond is set at $25,000.

There is no word at this time on the victim’s condition.