A Cedartown man was arrested following a reported domestic disturbance on Christmas Eve, according to law enforcement. Michael Caleb Clark, 28, of Cedartown, is charged with aggravated assault, criminal trespass, and third-degree cruelty to children.
Authorities responded to a residence on LaVista Avenue at approximately 3:12 p.m. on Dec. 24, 2025, after receiving a call about a domestic dispute. Upon arrival, officers separated the involved parties and began investigating.
According to the incident report, the disturbance followed several days of arguing between Clark and his fiancée. Investigators were told that tensions escalated after an argument, leading to a physical confrontation inside the home. During the incident, Clark allegedly grabbed the woman by the neck and strangled her against furniture, nearly causing her to lose consciousness.
The report states that children were present in the home during the incident. At one point, Clark reportedly placed the children into his truck and said he was leaving with them. While he was outside, the woman locked the front door. Clark then allegedly forced his way back into the residence, causing damage to the front door.
Clark told officers that he was attempting to collect his belongings when he was attacked and said he acted in self-defense. However, officers noted visible marks on the woman’s neck consistent with her account. Video evidence also showed Clark breaking the front door to re-enter the home.
Based on the statements and physical evidence, Clark was arrested at the scene for the safety of those involved. He was transported to the Polk County Jail without incident. The case remains under investigation.
