A self-admitted MS-13 gang member is accused of repeatedly hitting his girlfriend over the head with a stapler and using scissors to stab her multiple times.

The Garden City Patch reports that Kenny Cruz, 30, of Bay Shore, New York, allegedly carried out the near-fatal attack on his 32-year-old ex-girlfriend Sunday night. Police said the argument started after the victim went to Cruz’ mother’s home to speak to her about financial help for her and Cruz’ 14-year-old child.

Authorities said Cruz struck his ex in the face several times, threw her to the ground, and began kicking her. He then purportedly grabbed a stapler and struck her over the head—causing lacerations so deep her skull was visible. Cruz continued to kick the woman in the face before stabbing her three times with scissors, police alleged.

At one point, Cruz is said to have threatened his mother with the scissors as she tried to stop the attack. He also took his ex-girlfriend’s phone so she couldn’t dial 911, the Patch also reported.

The woman managed to escape from the Hempstead residence and drive home. According to WABC, the woman suffered a collapsed lung, three stab wounds, and various lacerations.

The Bay Shore man was arrested Sunday and charged with second-degree attempted murder, two counts of first-degree robbery, first- and second-degree assault, third-degree criminal possession of a weapon, first-degree unlawful imprisonment, two counts of second-degree menacing, and fourth-degree criminal mischief.

Police noted that Cruz has MS-13 tattoos and three prior arrests, WNBC reported.

Cruz’ arraignment was scheduled for Monday.

[Featured Image: Nassau County Police Department]