Athens man pleads not guilty to stabbing amid domestic violence

An Athens man has pleaded not guilty to charges related to his arrest five months ago for stabbing his girlfriend while they visited Memorial Park.

Cordero Giovanny Pumadera, 37, has pleaded not guilty to aggravated assault and aggravated battery for the stab wound that pierced one of Elizabeth Golem's lungs.

The charges were brought under Georgia's domestic violence law,

The incident occurred on January 31 during an argument in Gran Ellen Drive Park that escalated into violence during which Pumadera allegedly punched the victim to the ground, dragged her by the hair and stabbed her once in the side.

At the time, the couple had been living together for several months in Glendale Heights.

Pumadera made his case during an appearance in Clarke County Superior Court.

He remains in custody without bail at the county jail.

Anyone in an abusive relationship can seek advice and support services by calling Project Safe's 24-hour hotline at (706) 543-3331, or by visiting