Scioto County deputies handled not one, but two volatile domestic violence calls this week — and in both cases, both parties ended up in handcuffs.
West Portsmouth Chaos
Just after 12:30 a.m., deputies rushed to West Portsmouth for an active domestic disturbance. When they arrived, they found a man and a woman both injured.
Paramedics were called to the scene, and the woman was transported to the hospital for treatment. Deputies later arrested Joab Lopez for domestic violence and for domestic violence and strangulation once she was released from the hospital.
Both appeared in Portsmouth Municipal Court, where protection orders were issued for each party. Lopez and Davila were both released on their own recognizance — Davila is due back in court on October 23, and Lopez on October 30.
Another Couple, Same Story
Later that night, deputies were dispatched to Wheelersburg after a caller reported that Dustin Wheeler was “destroying the house” while a woman hid in a vehicle outside.
When officers arrived, they ended up arresting both Wheeler and Jeanette Race for domestic violence. Both were booked into the Scioto County Jail.
Wheeler appeared in court and was released on his own recognizance with a pre-trial date set for December 1. Court records show Wheeler has a history of protection order violations and criminal damaging.
Why Both Get Arrested
Deputies say arresting both parties may seem unusual, but in Ohio domestic violence cases, officers are sometimes required by law to arrest anyone who appears to have committed a crime during a domestic dispute — even if both people were injured or fighting.
If it’s unclear who the primary aggressor is, both can be charged until the court sorts it out.
Officers Walk a Tough Line
Domestic calls are some of the most dangerous and emotionally charged situations officers face. Deputies say their priority is always to protect lives first, even if that means making multiple arrests to separate those involved and prevent further violence.
