A quick-thinking Amazon delivery driver has been hailed a hero after a woman in Florida whispered “help me” during a delivery, prompting the driver to call the emergency services and potentially save her life.
The chilling encounter took place on March 28 in Indian River County, Florida, where deputies were called to a home following the delivery driver’s urgent report of a “suspicious incident.” According to police, the driver had been dropping off a parcel when the woman at the door mouthed the plea for help quietly enough not to be overheard – yet clearly enough to spur action.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they found 43-year-old Frank Mandolini sitting outside the home with a woman who appeared visibly shaken and had red marks on her neck.
Officers said she looked “in distress” and quickly separated her from Mandolini to speak with her safely.
What she ended up revealing to officers was harrowing.
The woman told officers she’d been lying in bed when she confronted Mandolini about allegedly messaging other women and watching porn on his phone and tablet.
In response, she said, Mandolini flew into a rage, grabbing her by the throat, dragging her to the floor and choking her so hard she nearly passed out.
Officers noted clear red marks on her neck “consistent with being choked” and said the woman complained of pain and a strange sensation when swallowing.
Mandolini was arrested on the spot and later charged with felony battery by strangulation – a serious domestic violence offence.
According to the arrest affidavit in the US, Mandolini admitted to choking the woman during police transport but denied cutting off her breathing.
The case has sparked praise for the Amazon driver’s quick actions, which may have prevented an even more tragic outcome. Domestic abuse charities have reiterated how vital it is for the public to be alert to subtle signs of danger.
“This woman used one of the few tools available to her – a whisper – to seek help,” a domestic abuse campaigner told the Mirror US. “Thanks to that delivery driver, her voice was heard.”
Prison records show Mandolini was released on bond the following day.
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