A tense yesterday afternoon in Romulus ended with a 32-year-old Ypsilanti man in custody after an hours-long barricade at a home where police say a woman was being held. Officers spent several hours on the scene negotiating before the woman was released, and the suspect was later arrested.
Officers were called around 4 p.m. to a domestic violence report in the 6000 block of Amarillo Drive, according to CBS News Detroit. Police say the suspect threatened to shoot any officer who entered the home and barricaded himself inside with a 37-year-old woman, who was heard crying and saying she was being held against her will. The woman was released nearly three hours later, at about 6:45 p.m., while the man remained inside. An update after 8:30 p.m. said the suspect was in custody and that a records check showed a history of domestic violence at the home and in the suspect's criminal history.
Legal implications
The conduct described by police is the type of behavior that can bring serious felony charges under Michigan law. Unlawful imprisonment is codified at MCL 750.349b, which covers holding someone against their will. Threatening or interfering with officers who are carrying out their duties can fall under MCL 750.81d, the statute that addresses assaulting, resisting, or obstructing officers. Depending on the facts and evidence, both statutes can support felony charges.
Police response and investigation
Police did not immediately release additional details or say whether specific charges had been filed, according to CBS News Detroit. Romulus police told reporters that a records check showed prior domestic violence at the address, and investigators remained on the scene while the department continued its review.
Resources for survivors
Anyone affected by domestic violence can access confidential help and local referrals through the National Domestic Violence Hotline. The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers 24-hour support by phone and online for people seeking safety planning, information or someone to talk to.
