A front desk worker at the Quality Inn on the Scioto Trail may have saved a woman from further harm after noticing signs of domestic violence and stepping in to help.
Police were called to the hotel after the clerk reported that a woman who had checked in with a man was now hiding behind the front desk. The worker told officers the woman had visible bruises, and other guests said they had heard the couple arguing earlier.
According to the clerk, the man had taken the woman’s belongings and was outside in a car with another woman. Both the man and the other woman were reportedly under the influence of drugs. Officers took an initial report that day.
The next day, police arrested Agustin Sanchez-Medero for domestic violence and booked him into the Scioto County Jail. He later appeared in Portsmouth Municipal Court, where the judge issued a domestic violence protection order.
How Workers Can Help
Situations like this show just how important alert employees can be. Hotel and motel staff, gas station clerks, and other service workers are often the first to spot signs of abuse or human trafficking — people who appear frightened, controlled, or physically injured.
By taking quick action and calling police, the Quality Inn clerk likely helped prevent a dangerous situation from escalating. Law enforcement agencies encourage all frontline workers: If something feels off, say something.
