SKOWHEGAN (AP) — A high school music teacher charged with threatening to kill his girlfriend and choking her until she passed out has been freed on $10,000 bail.

Andrew Maderios of Pittsfield made his initial court appearance this week to face eight charges, including three felony counts of aggravated assault. He did not enter a plea.

Prosecutors said given the seriousness of the case, they asked for $25,000 bail.

The 28-year-old Maderios has been placed on leave from his job at Nokomis Regional High School in Newport pending the outcome.

Prosecutors said the alleged victim recorded two of the incidents on her cellphone.

As a condition of bail, Maderios was ordered to stay away from her victim.

His lawyer said he intends to vigorously defend himself against the charges. Arraignment is Sept. 17.