RICHMOND, VIRGINIA – A 64-year-old Richmond man has been charged with felony abduction after allegedly taping his wife to a chair in the basement so he could watch football upstairs. Terry Ward was arrested last Sunday night after officers responded to a domestic call. His wife told police she had been restrained for up to 45 minutes. Ward is due in court on November 10.
Officers Respond to Domestic Call at Richmond Home Sunday Night
Police were called to the home on Sunday night for a reported domestic disturbance. When officers arrived, they spoke with Ward’s wife about what had happened. The call came during an evening when football was on television.
According to the criminal complaint, she told officers that Ward used tape to restrain her to a chair in the basement. She said he then went upstairs to watch football. She said she was left alone while he was upstairs.
Wife Had Marks and Tape Residue on Both Arms
Officers observed marks and tape residue on both of the woman’s arms. She told police she had been held in the chair for as long as 45 minutes. Those injuries were documented by officers at the scene. Her name and condition were not released.
According to the complaint, Ward admitted that he tied her up and left her in the basement. Investigators have not said what led up to the incident. His admission is part of the criminal complaint filed in the case.
Terry Ward Faces Felony Abduction and Assault Charges
Ward, 64, is charged with felony abduction and misdemeanor assault and battery on a family member. He is scheduled to appear in court on November 10. The charges stem from the wife’s statements and evidence found by police. Whether he was released on bond was not shared.
In Virginia, abduction is a felony that can carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years. Assault and battery on a family member is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, punishable by up to 12 months in jail. Ward is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Case Highlights Seriousness of Domestic Abuse at Home
The case has drawn shock online, with many calling the alleged act cruel and dangerous. Restraining someone against their will can cause physical injury and serious emotional harm. Domestic violence advocates say abuse can take many forms beyond physical violence.
Anyone experiencing domestic violence can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 for free, confidential support. Help is also available by texting START to 88788. Local police can be reached by calling 911 in an emergency.
Stay with community-journal.com for the latest weather updates and local forecast coverage.
