BEDFORD, IN – A Bedford woman has been arrested on charges of domestic battery after an altercation with her son on the evening of October 31, 2024.
According to an affidavit from Bedford Police Department Sgt. Toby Gerkin, officers responded to a call at 1525 2nd Street, where they met with the male victim, who reported that his mother, Krystal Harden, had battered him during a dispute.
The male explained that the argument began over a vacuum cleaner, which escalated when his mother reportedly struck him multiple times in the face with both an open hand and a closed fist. The male said the strikes caused him pain, and officers observed visible redness on the left side of his face. He told police that during the altercation, he restrained his mother by grabbing her arms to prevent further violence. After the confrontation, the male warned his mother that he would call the police if she did not calm down, at which point she left the residence. He then contacted law enforcement to report the incident.
Harden had already left the scene when officers arrived, but she returned shortly after that. In an interview with police, she confirmed that the argument had been over the vacuum cleaner and explained that she had turned off the internet, which caused her son to become upset. However, she denied hitting her son, suggesting that she feared him due to his size and her fear of his anger.
The male chose to pursue criminal charges, signing a battery affidavit and release of medical records. He was also informed about available resources, including Hoosier Hills PACT and protective order options.
Harden was advised to leave the residence for the night and stay with her sister. Officers indicated that a report would be forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office for further review. A warrant was issued for her arrest, and she was arrested on Friday, November 15.
Those facing criminal charges are considered innocent unless convicted through due legal proceedings. Accusations alone do not imply guilt; the judicial system will evaluate the presented evidence to reach a verdict.
