A Cedartown man, Darrell Shane Dutton, 41, was arrested following a domestic dispute on West Avenue that allegedly escalated into an assault, property damage, and child endangerment, according to local authorities.
Officers were initially dispatched to the residence in reference to a medical call involving a man suffering from chest pains. After emergency medical personnel took over the medical situation, officers remained on scene and discovered evidence of a separate disturbance connected to an earlier argument at the home.
Police reported finding a white 2010 Ford Expedition parked outside the residence with a brick on the hood and a shattered windshield. The vehicle’s gas cap was open, and a foam cup containing what appeared to be sugar was found nearby. Officers also observed a white residue inside the gas tank area, raising concerns that sugar may have been placed inside.
The vehicle’s owner told officers she was unaware of the damage until it was pointed out and alleged that Dutton was responsible.
During the investigation, officers learned the woman had visible swelling around one eye and reported that Dutton had taken her cell phone when he left the residence.
Authorities later located Dutton at Grand’s Gas Station on South Main Street, where he was reportedly playing an electronic gaming machine. He admitted that an argument had occurred but denied damaging the vehicle or putting sugar in the gas tank. He was taken into custody without incident.
During a search, officers recovered two cell phones, cash, and personal property. One of the phones was later identified as belonging to the victim and was returned to her.
According to the victim’s statement, the dispute began earlier in the day over money and continued to escalate. She said the two had gone to Walmart to purchase Dutton a new phone, but tensions rose again when he reset her phone to factory settings while attempting to activate his device.
She told officers that during the argument, Dutton struck her in the jaw and eye while she was holding an infant child. A second child was also present and witnessed the incident. Officers documented visible swelling above her eye consistent with her account.
Damage to the vehicle windshield was estimated at approximately $400.
Dutton was transported to the Polk County Jail, where he was booked on the charges.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Dutton is charged with simple battery, third-degree cruelty to children, and criminal trespass.
