Earlier today, a Chelsea Police officer was arrested on charges of domestic violence after authorities responded to a reported disturbance. Officer Michael Villanueva, 33, is facing domestic assault and assault and battery with a dangerous weapon charges, as reported by NBC Boston. The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m., and Villanueva was later found by officers in Everett and taken into custody.
During the arrest, which involved the assistance of Everett Police, it was determined that Villanueva was off-duty at the time. Prosecutors revealed in court that an argument escalated while the officer and a female victim were inside his vehicle. The victim alleged that Villanueva began hitting her, prompting her to exit the vehicle and attempt to prevent him from driving away. She claims he then drove at her, striking her hand with the sideview mirror, NBC Boston reported.
According to a media statement, Chelsea Police Chief Keith Houghton said, "The Chelsea Police Department takes these matters seriously and is fully cooperating with the judicial process." Villanueva did not enter a plea at his arraignment but was released on personal recognizance. He has been ordered to stay away from the victim and the scene of the incident, remain alcohol-free, and to surrender any firearms he may possess. In light of the criminal case and pending internal investigation, Villanueva has been placed on administrative leave by the department, as mentioned by Boston 25 News.
No additional details about what led to the disturbance call or Villanueva’s subsequent arrest have been released as of yet. This issue is currently a developing story, and further updates are expected as more information is made available.
