Off-duty NYPD cop and her husband broke into sister-in-law’s home and strangled her: prosecutors

An off-duty New York City detective was arrested Sunday after she and her husband allegedly kicked down the door of her sister-in-law’s Queens home and strangled the relative, police and prosecutors said.

Maria and Robert Villalta, both 39, also allegedly punched the victim in the face during the predawn burglary that began about 2:15 a.m., according to the indictment.

Once inside the home, Robert Villalta allegedly threw his sister on the bed and strangled her.

He then allegedly punched her in the face, prosecutors say.

According to the complaint, the victim told officers that Maria Villalta also hit her and then wrapped both arms around her neck during the attack.

Robert Villalta also allegedly struck a man who was in the apartment with his sister and then strangled him, the Queens District Attorney’s Office said.

Both victims complained of difficulty breathing as a result of the alleged attack. The officer’s sister-in-law also had marks on her face, neck and arm, as well as a bleeding nose, according to the complaint.

The NYPD said Maria Villalta was arrested around 4:15 a.m. Sunday night in Queens. She has been suspended without pay, the department said.

Prosecutors said she and her husband were charged with second-degree burglary, third-degree assault, obstructing breathing and second-degree harassment.