When a terrified woman calls 911 saying she’s been choked and pushed to the ground—and that her alleged attacker has their toddler in a car and won’t give the child back—police don’t have the option to look the other way.
That’s exactly what happened in West Portsmouth, when a domestic call quickly turned into an arrest.
💥 “He’s Sitting Outside with Our Toddler”
- Officers were dispatched after a woman reported being assaulted by a man she said choked her and shoved her.
- She told dispatch the man was sitting outside in a vehicle with their toddler, refusing to hand the child over.
- Moments later, she called back to say police could “disregard” the call — but by then, it was too late.
👉 Because of the violent nature of the report, police said they were required by law to respond to check on her safety and the child’s welfare.
👮 Arrest Made
When officers arrived, they found the suspect, Jacob Deaver, and placed him under arrest for Domestic Violence.
- Deaver was booked into the Scioto County Jail.
- He later appeared in Portsmouth Municipal Court, where a protective order was issued to protect the victim.
- The court released him on his own recognizance pending further hearings.
- He’s scheduled to return to court on December 2.
Why Police Can’t Ignore Domestic Calls
Even when a victim later says they want to cancel, police must investigate when violence or threats are reported. It’s not optional — it’s policy.
🚨 Once a report mentions choking, physical harm, or children present, officers are legally obligated to respond.
👶 Children’s safety becomes an immediate priority.
🧑⚖️ Officers must collect evidence and, when necessary, make an arrest on the spot.