Eric Richards and Merihazel Walters, a couple from the Charlotte, North Carolina area, were attacked on the sidewalk outside Planet Hollywood on Las Vegas Boulevard on the afternoon of Sept. 30, according to a Metropolitan Police Department arrest report. The incident occurred on the eve of their wedding, which they had traveled to Las Vegas to celebrate.
Police said the attackers were Jennifer Ortiz, 26, and Magdellena Romero, 43, who were dressed as showgirl impersonators. Ortiz struck Richards 22 times, including with her high-heeled boot, causing a 2-inch gash and lump on his forehead. Romero tackled Walters and struck her multiple times in the head with a closed fist.
The couple said they had paid $20 for a photo with three women in purple bodysuits and feathers before being asked for more money. When they tried to walk away, Ortiz followed and began the altercation. Ortiz later told police that Richards became aggressive and punched her five times in the shoulder, and that she removed her boots to try to walk away.
Surveillance footage from Planet Hollywood and police video appeared to support the couple’s version of events, showing Ortiz walking closely behind them before swinging her arms. A third woman in similar attire acted as a peacemaker during the incident. Ortiz and Romero were arrested shortly after on suspicion of battery, with Ortiz also facing a charge of obtaining money under false pretenses.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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