PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison has been charged with assaulting his girlfriend.

Harrison was arrested Saturday after hitting 29-year-old Beth Tibbott at her home in Ohio Township, according to a police affidavit.

Harrison, of Franklin Park, was arraigned on charges of simple assault and criminal mischief. The 29-year-old was released on his own recognizance pending a preliminary hearing Thursday.

The couple had been arguing before just before 1 p.m. when Tibbott locked herself in a bedroom, the police said.

While Tibbott was trying to call 911, Harrison broke down the door, took her cell phone and broke it in half, according to police. Tibbott said Harrison then hit her across the face with an open hand and knocked off her glasses.

Police said Tibbott had "red marks" on her left cheek. She had called them after the alleged assault, saying she was afraid of Harrison.

Harrison drove from the house in a Hummer and was pulled over minutes later by Franklin Park police.

Steelers spokesman Dave Lockett said the team is gathering information, but considers the charges a personal matter of Harrison's. The player's agents also declined comment.