Sometimes, deputies have to put on more than just a badge, they’ve got to play referee, therapist, and peace negotiator. That was the case on Furnace Creek Road, where a frustrated woman dialed up the Scioto County Sheriff’s Office with a fiery complaint: “HE keeps running his mouth while I’m trying to cook dinner!”
The call, which came in around dinnertime, prompted a deputy response. According to the report, the woman was yelling on the phone and demanded a deputy “make him stop.” Once on scene, the deputy reminded her that arguing isn’t against the law and encouraged both parties to take a step back before things escalated further. No charges were filed just a suggestion to give each other space before dinner boils over in more ways than one.
Meanwhile in Wheelersburg…
At nearly the same time, officers were dispatched to a separate disturbance in Wheelersburg, where a woman reported being physically attacked and said the man was still in the garage. Officers arrived, spoke with both parties, and discovered a familiar problem: conflicting stories, no visible injuries, and neither party wanting to press charges.
Once again, law enforcement stepped into a counseling role, advising both parties of their legal options and encouraging them to de-escalate the situation.
🛑 De-Escalating Domestic Disputes: Tips from First Responders
Law enforcement officials say not every 911 call ends in handcuffs—and that’s a good thing. Many situations, like these, require calm heads and a little redirection before they turn into something more serious.
Here are a few tips they recommend for handling household tension:
Take a time-out: If tempers flare, walk away. Give each other space before re-engaging.
Don’t involve law enforcement unless it’s an emergency: For loud arguments without threats or violence, consider community mediation or counseling.
Know when to call 911: If there’s any threat of harm—verbal, physical, or otherwise—do call for help.
Set boundaries and communication rules: Avoid high-conflict times like mealtimes or late at night for sensitive topics.
Not every day calls for flashing lights and sirens—but as these two calls show, sometimes all it takes is a calm voice and a little perspective to keep the peace.
