A frightened aunt called 911 when her nephew stormed into her home, yelling and refusing to leave. The dramatic scene unfolded around 2:30 PM, but by the time officers arrived, the man had already taken off, reportedly heading toward 6th Street.
Police searched but came up empty and advised the woman to call back if he returned. Sure enough, just 15 minutes later, he was back—this time in a gray car. Officers arrived within five minutes and took Paul Fitzpatrick into custody.
A Troubled History
Fitzpatrick’s latest charge? Drug possession. And it’s far from his first run-in with the law. The troubled man has a long history of drug-related and violent offenses, including:
🔹 2024: Drug paraphernalia, persistent disorderly conduct, menacing
🔹 2022: Drug paraphernalia, obstruction, aggravated criminal trespass
🔹 Other charges: Violating a protection order, resisting arrest, and even assaulting an officer
Police booked him into the Scioto County Jail, but the bigger question remains—what can families do when a loved one is spiraling?
What to Do If You Have a Troubled Relative
If you have a family member struggling with addiction, mental health issues, or violent behavior, you don’t have to face it alone. Here are some steps you can take:
✅ Stay Safe – If your loved one is aggressive or unpredictable, call 911 immediately. Your safety comes first.
✅ Seek Professional Help – Contact local resources like Scioto County Mental Health Services or rehab facilities for intervention options.
✅ Set Boundaries – If they have a history of theft, violence, or drug use, avoid giving them access to your home, car, or finances.
✅ Consider a Protection Order – If the situation escalates, a restraining order might be necessary to keep your family safe.
✅ Don’t Enable – Avoid giving money or shelter if they are actively using drugs or engaging in criminal activity—it only prolongs the problem.
Substance abuse and mental health crises affect entire families, and while police intervention may be necessary, long-term solutions often require treatment and support programs. If you or a loved one need help, reach out to local addiction services, crisis hotlines, or law enforcement for guidance.
