COLUMBUS— Derick Harris, of Columbus, was arrested Thursday evening on charges of domestic battery and strangulation, according to a press release from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 9:20 p.m., a deputy responded to Columbus Regional Hospital after receiving a report that a domestic battery victim had sought medical treatment. Upon investigation, it was determined that the female victim had sustained significant injuries to her head, arms, and neck.
Authorities identified the suspect as 42-year-old Derick Harris of Columbus. Deputies attempted to contact Harris at his home on South Lake Drive but encountered difficulty. While they briefly spoke with him, Harris refused to exit the residence or allow deputies inside. Communication was abruptly cut off, and despite multiple attempts, deputies could not reestablish contact.
A perimeter was established around the home, and a search warrant was obtained. Given the presence of several firearms in the residence, the Columbus Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team was activated. Drones from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office were also deployed to assist in locating Harris.
SWAT officers ultimately entered the residence and took Harris into custody without further incident on charges of domestic battery with serious bodily injury, strangulation, and resisting law enforcement.
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.
