MITCHELL — A verbal disagreement between roommates escalated into a physical confrontation Tuesday night, resulting in the arrest of a 45-year-old Mitchell woman.
Heather M. Staggs was taken into custody by the Mitchell Police Department on February 24, 2026, following a domestic disturbance at a residence in the 600 block of West Warren Street. She faces a preliminary charge of domestic battery, a Class A misdemeanor.
At approximately 8:36 p.m., Mitchell Police Assistant Chief Jacob Kuhlman responded to a report of a physical domestic incident. Upon arrival, he was met by a male, who was shouting for the officer to remove a woman from the premises.
The male pointed to the chest area of his shirt, which was visibly wet with liquid splatter marks. He alleged that Staggs, one of his roommates, had “thrown stuff” in his face after an argument that had been simmering since the previous night.
A female witness at the scene corroborated the male’s account. According to the probable cause affidavit, the female witness told investigators she saw the pair arguing before watching Staggs take a Wendy’s cup and splash its contents directly into the male’s face.
When questioned by Assistant Chief Kuhlman, Staggs initially claimed the contact was accidental. She alleged that the male had tried to throw a bag at her, and that “water got on him” during the exchange. She admitted they were arguing and claimed the male had been calling her names.
However, physical evidence at the scene supported the victim’s version of events. Officers located a Wendy’s cup lying on its side on the floor. There were various papers, notebooks, and envelopes on the floor that were found soaked with liquid.
Based on the witness statement and the physical evidence of the liquid being thrown in an “angry or insolent manner,” Staggs was placed in restraints and taken into custody.
The victim indicated to officers that he wished to pursue formal charges. Staggs was transported to the Lawrence County Jail.
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.
