Matthew Qualls was arrested by Scioto County Sheriff’s Department on charges of domestic violence (ORC 2919.25), a 4th-degree misdemeanor.
Sources tell SCDN that Qualls was an officer with the New Boston Police Department.
The New Boston Police Department has not responded to our questions regarding the incident. We held off on publishing this story for several days while waiting for NBPD’s response.
SCDN received information regarding the arrest and its circumstances. The altercation between Qualls and his spouse escalated into a dangerous situation, reports state.
During an argument with his wife, Qualls allegedly attacked her.
In the aftermath of the altercation, Qualls threatened self-harm. We were told he sent pictures of himself holding his police-issued service weapon.
Qualls was released from jail on his own recognizance. His charges have been upgraded to Domestic Threats, a 2nd-degree misdemeanor under ORC 2919.25c.
The court appointed an attorney to represent Qualls after he applied as an indigent. He was exempted from paying the $25 indigent fee. Attorney Ruth Buckler represents him. His first pre-trial hearing will take place on Feb. 23.
Qualls could face a jail sentence of up to 90 days and a fine of $750 if convicted.
