Standoff occurs at Milan motel after suspect allegedly strangles, throws down pregnant woman
MILAN – A 37-year-old man was arrested on March 9 following a standoff at the Motel Boutique by Wolf Inn on US-250.
According to a report from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the motel for a report of a physical domestic in progress.
When deputies arrived, according to the report, they found a woman in the parking lot screaming. The report states she claimed that she had been strangled and thrown down by Stephen Kennedy, whom she had been involved in a relationship with for several years.
According to the report, the woman claimed the assault occurred when she met Kennedy at the motel to discuss her pregnancy. She claimed that she had taken a nap and when she woke up, Kennedy began yelling at her and accusing her of stealing his drugs and money. She said she attempted to leave after Kennedy started yelling about killing her, but he threw her to the ground.
The woman claimed she was still able to escape after finding an opening in the room and was able to get close to the front office; however, Kennedy grabbed her by her sweatshirt and began to drag her, the report states. She claimed that she was unable to breathe due to the sweatshirt being around her neck.
The report states security camera footage supported the woman’s claims.
North Central EMS responded to the scene and treated the woman.
After deputies arrived, according to the report, Kennedy was isolated into a common bathroom at the motel. The report states a standoff occurred for nearly an hour, before Kennedy, who was known for carrying firearms, surrendered.
Kennedy, of Youngstown, was taken to the Erie County Jail and charged with a fourth-degree felony charge of domestic violence.
This article was written by Nate Hinners. Contact Nate at nhinners@huroninsider.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: Erie County Jail