The Northwood city manager faces several charges, including attempted first-degree murder.

60-year-old Neil Irvine is accused of attempting to suffocate his ex-wife.

Irvine was arrested Tuesday by the Belknap County Sheriff's Department on four felony charges: attempted first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree assault and coercion.

According to court documents, the charges relate to a September 24, 2022 incident in which Irvine was accused of sitting on his ex-wife, attempting to cover her nose and mouth with his hands, and then covering her face with a pillow.

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Irvine's attorney told News 9 he is pleading not guilty. Defense attorney David Bailinson said it was unusual for such serious charges to be brought years after the alleged incident, but he said Irvine is an upstanding citizen and the legal system will prevail.

“We're talking about the former chairman of New Hampshire Fire Standards and Training,” Bailinson said. “We're talking about the town manager of Northwood. We're talking about a member of the board of the New Hampshire Municipal Association. The list is endless.”

Irvine posted $5,000 bail Tuesday and is back at work at Northwood City Hall. News 9 reached out to the Northwood Select Board for comment but has not received a response.