Henry Albert Dingler, 60 of Cedartown, was arrested this week after reports said he got into a physical altercation with his son.
Reports said that while responding to a domestic situation on Perry Street, officers made contact with a male subject in a wheelchair in the driveway. The individual identified himself as Albert Dingler and stated that he had been involved in a physical altercation with his son, Aaron Dingler. Albert alleged that Aaron had struck him multiple times in the head.
Officers asked Albert if he had any visible injuries, such as marks, bruises, or swelling on his head. He stated that he did not, and upon inspection, police did not observe any injuries to his head. However, I did note some skin tears and bleeding on his wrist, which appeared consistent with his age and disability.
Officers then entered the residence and spoke with the complainant, Aaron Dingler. Aaron stated that he had been in an altercation with his father, Albert, who had been staying at his home for approximately one month to assist with household bills. Aaron reported that Albert had recently given him $2,000 to cover expenses.
According to Aaron, the dispute began when Albert became upset about running out of cigarettes, which he had been without for over a day. Aaron stated that he had a friend go to the store to purchase cigarettes and bring them back. However, Albert then decided to leave the residence and attempted to take the cigarettes with him. Aaron told Albert that he could not take them, as Aaron had paid for them. At that point, Aaron took possession of the cigarettes.
Aaron stated that Albert then struck him in the chest and continued to hit him. In response, Aaron pushed Albert away. He further reported that Albert grabbed a pair of pliers and began striking him with them.
Aaron then went to his bedroom, retrieved a baseball bat for self-defense, and called 911.
After speaking with Aaron, I returned to Albert to gather his statement. Albert was unwilling to provide details about how the altercation began or progressed. He repeatedly stated that Aaron had struck him but would not elaborate further.
During the investigation, officers said that he observed visible injuries on Aaron, including bleeding and lacerations to his hands, as well as bleeding and damage to his left big toe. Aaron reported that Albert had rolled over his foot with his wheelchair during the altercation.
Based on testimonial and physical evidence, I determined Albert Dingler to be the predominant aggressor. I placed Albert under arrest for Battery (FVA). Due to his use of a wheelchair, I handcuffed him in the front. Dingler is charged with battery.
