LEWISTON – A man charged with killing his girlfriend wrapped a towel around her neck and pulled it until she stopped screaming, according to a police affidavit.

Francois “Frank” Gallant, 53, was arrested and charged with murder Saturday in the death of 42-year-old Cherie Ann Andrews.

At his initial court appearance Monday, the defense and prosecution agreed that Gallant should be held without bail until his case is presented to an Androscoggin County grand jury.

If Gallant is officially charged by the grand jury, he will reappear in court to enter a plea.

Gallant told police he and Andrews began arguing Friday night after drinking and popping prescription pills in their apartment, according to the affidavit filed by Maine State Police Detective Armand Lucier.

He told police he tried to get away but that Andrews followed him into the bedroom and told him she was going to have him arrested, the affidavit said.