Tunnelton man arrested for intimidation after alleged threats against neighbor and infant

TUNNELTON– Lonnie D. Hanners, 61, of Tunnelton, has been arrested and faces a felony intimidation charge after allegedly threatening to kill his neighbor and her three-month-old daughter.

Lonnie Hanners

The Lawrence County Police Department arrested Hanners on a warrant following an investigation into the incident on February 23, 2025.

According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Officer Robin Compton, the investigation began on February 22, 2025, when a woman reported that Hanners had made threats against her. The victim stated that as she was leaving her residence, Hanners began yelling at her from his nearby home.

She told police that Hanners threatened to kill her and her infant daughter, causing her significant distress. She also reported that Hanners’ behavior was not unusual and that he had made threats in the past and attempted to give her children food. She provided a written statement to police, detailing the alleged threats, which included Hanners saying he would “kill me and my ugly little baby” and “burn my house down.” She expressed fear for the safety of her three children.

Officer Compton then proceeded to Hanners’ residence to investigate. Upon speaking with Hanners, the officer noted signs of intoxication. Hanners admitted to having ongoing issues with his neighbors, claiming they were involved in drug sales, underage drinking, and driving without license plates. While Hanners denied specifically threatening the women, he admitted to having verbal altercations and claimed his neighbors had threatened him.

Later that evening, the woman contacted dispatch again, reporting that Hanners was outside yelling threats and playing loud music. Additional officers responded to the scene, and both parties were advised about their behavior.

Based on Officer Compton’s investigation, the information was forwarded to the Lawrence County Prosecutor’s Office, and a warrant was requested for Hanners’ arrest.

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.