Arrest made after Bedford man slaps and punches woman

BEDFORD – A Bedford man was arrested Tuesday afternoon after Bedford Police officers say he punched a woman in the head during an argument on May 1.

Officers responded to the 720 block of 16th Street at 2:29 p.m. after a report of a domestic fight.

Dustin Pemberton

The woman told police she and 26-year old Dustin Pemberton were sitting on the couch in a home in the 510 block of 15th Street while feeding their daughter when she and Pemberton engaged in an argument. She told police Pemberton threw items at her and around the room. 

He also used a blanket to hit her in the head and then slapped her in the head. He then proceeded to slap her in the face.

The woman told police she gathered her son and daughter and left the home, walking down the alley behind 15th Street.

Pemberton caught up the woman and punched her from behind with a closed fist  in the head.

Police say the woman complained of pain and had a red mark on the left side of her head.

The woman walked to a friend’s house in the 720 block of 16th Street and used the phone to call police. 

The woman told police this was not the first time Pemberton had hit her, but this time she wanted to file charges.

Officers then went to the home on 15th Street to speak to Pemberton, but he was not there. Officers continued to look for Pemberton but were unable to find him.

The Department of Child Services was also contacted. 

The information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office and a warrant was issued for Pemberton’s arrest on a charge of domestic battery in the presence of a minor.

If you or someone you know is involved in a domestic violence situation and needs help, call Hoosier Hills PACT 24-hour crisis line at 1-888-883-1959 or visit their website at https://www.pactchangeslives.com/

The agency can provide emergency assistance with shelter to those in domestic violence situations.  Hoosier Hills Pack also provides assistance with court advocacy, protective orders, education, outreach programs, support groups, and more.