A 2:30 a.m. 911 call about a woman being assaulted inside a Mabert Road home led police to arrest a man on domestic violence charges early Sunday morning.
When officers arrived, they found evidence supporting the caller’s report and took Francisco Santis into custody.
He was booked into the Scioto County Jail on charges of domestic violence and contempt of court. Santis appeared in Portsmouth Municipal Court, where a hearing was set for Tuesday.
Why Reporting Matters
Police say quick calls from bystanders can save lives in cases of domestic violence. Abusers often rely on silence and isolation to continue their behavior, but witnesses who step in by contacting authorities can interrupt the cycle of harm.
What To Do If You Suspect Domestic Violence
- Call 911 immediately if you believe someone is in danger. Even if you’re unsure, it’s better to let officers investigate.
- Do not intervene directly — approaching an abuser can put you and the victim at greater risk.
- Offer support safely — let victims know they’re not alone and connect them with resources like shelters or hotlines.
- Document concerns — if you hear or see repeated incidents, keeping notes can help investigators build a stronger case.
Domestic violence advocates stress that intervention isn’t just about stopping a single incident — it’s about giving survivors a chance to break free from dangerous environments.