QU professor arrested for allegedly assaulting girlfriend with frying pan

Dwight Merriam, 72, of Weatogue, was arrested on Tuesday by Simsbury Police.

Police said Merriam's girlfriend called police stating he had assaulted her with a frying pan during an argument.

When police arrived at the home, Merriam said there was a verbal argument between him and the victim because she was trying to break up with him and she wanted $50,000.

Merriam told police he had been in a relationship with the victim since 2013. He said the two had met when Merriam was the victim's professor at UConn Law School.

The victim told police the argument started when Merriam was complaining about running out of money and he was planning on cutting off her financial support.

According to a police report, the victim said Merriam wanted her to go back to Russia, but the victim couldn't.

The victim explained she had quit her job and had no place to go back to in Russia.

Police said the victim reported the verbal agreement was over that they agreed upon if they got married, then the victim would sign a prenuptial agreement to protect Merriam's assets, and if they broke up, Merriam would pay her $50,000 to return to Russia.

Merriam allegedly chased the victim around the kitchen with a frying pan and threw a selfie stick and a butter knife at her as well.

The victim' had a bruise on her hip from the incident.

According to UConn, he was an adjunct instructor when he occasionally taught night classes. They said he has not taught classes since 2015, and is not scheduled for future classes.

UConn also said he is currently affiliated with Quinnipiac University.

Quinnipiac University said they do not comment on personnel matters.

Merriam was arrested for disorderly conduct and third-degree assault.

He was released on a promise to appear in Enfield court.