BEDFORD — The Bedford Police Department has filed a probable cause affidavit seeking an arrest warrant for a local man following a reported domestic assault that left a woman injured.
Robert A. Higgs, 51, is accused of domestic battery causing bodily injury in connection with an incident that occurred at a residence in the 2900 block of Ted Jones Drive.
On October 8, 2025, officers were dispatched to the apartment complex after receiving a report of a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, Captain Nicholas A. Lemke was met by the female victim, who was visibly distraught and had blood stains on her robe.
According to the affidavit, Hutslar told investigators that her live-in boyfriend, Higgs, became verbally abusive while they were in the bedroom. She reported that while her back was turned to him, Higgs struck her in the back of the head with a closed fist.
The victim further alleged that Higgs held her down, prompting her to bite his arm to free herself. In response, Higgs reportedly punched her in the face with a closed fist, causing her to bleed from the mouth.
The entire incident was reportedly witnessed by the victim’s son, who was present in the home. He confirmed his mother’s account of the events to responding officers.
The woman informed police that she did not call 911 immediately during the struggle because she feared Higgs would destroy her phone, noting that he had done so during previous disputes.
As part of the investigation, Captain Lemke conducted a domestic violence lethality screen.
During the screening, the victim indicated a history of controlling behavior and past threats to her life. Because the screen indicated a high risk for future violence, officers contacted the Hoosier Hills PACT hotline to provide the victim with support services. While the victim declined emergency housing at the time, she was provided with resources to seek further assistance.
Higgs had fled the apartment on foot before officers arrived and was not located during a search of the immediate area. Captain Lemke requested an arrest warrant, and Higgs was detained on Friday, March 6th.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the probable cause affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
