Trenton man Jomelle Baker faces felony domestic assault charge
Jomelle Baker, a resident of Trenton, faces a felony charge of third-degree domestic assault following a violent confrontation on Nov. 4. Authorities allege that Baker used a hammer to threaten a family member during a dispute at a residence on Kitty St., according to reports from kttn.com.
The incident began as a verbal argument before escalating into physical violence. Sgt. Jeb Walker of the Grundy County Law Enforcement Center stated that Baker allegedly slapped the victim on both sides of the face. The situation grew more severe when Baker reportedly picked up a hammer and swung it toward the person.
The victim retreated into a bedroom, locking the door to escape the confrontation. According to the probable cause statement, Baker then struck the bedroom door repeatedly with the hammer, creating holes in the structure. The victim contacted 911 during the incident out of concern for their physical safety.
Felony charges filed in Grundy County
Prosecuting Attorney Kelly Puckett filed the charge of third-degree domestic assault, a class E felony, on Wednesday. The criminal complaint identifies the victim as a person related to Baker by marriage. In his report, Sgt. Walker noted that he considered Baker a danger to the victim due to the nature of the physical assault and the use of a weapon.
Witnesses listed in the official complaint include Sgt. Walker, Officer Tim Findley, and the alleged victim. Baker remains under the presumption of innocence, as the charges are allegations that must be proven in a court of law.
Bond set for Nov. 5 court appearance
Judge Carrie Lamm Clark issued an arrest warrant for Baker on Nov. 4, establishing a $25,000 cash-only bond. An initial appearance is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 5, in the main courtroom of the Grundy County Circuit Court, located at 700 Main St. in Trenton.
Baker’s initial appearance scheduled for Nov. 5 will determine the next phase of the judicial process.