SANDUSKY, OH – A Sandusky woman seeking help for a domestic dispute ended up reporting a violent assault involving herself and her young child, leading to a series of charges against an Ohio man, authorities say.
The woman arrived at the Sandusky Police Department on July 18, hoping to speak with an officer about options for navigating domestic conflict. As she spoke with authorities, she revealed more alarming details, recounting a harrowing experience from the night before that left both her and her 2-year-old child injured.
According to police, the woman described how Thomas Vance, 44, became physically violent during an argument at her residence. She said Vance first began striking her and then attempted to strangle her. Police reports indicate that during the struggle, he also struck her toddler, compounding the severity of the incident.
Fearing for her safety, the woman said she tried to protect herself and her child by fighting back, eventually kicking and biting Vance’s leg to break free. Following the incident, she sought medical attention at a nearby emergency room, citing symptoms that included abnormal bleeding, a swollen throat, and visible bruises. However, faced with long wait times and foreseeable complications, she left the hospital untreated.
When interviewed by officers, the woman displayed injuries consistent with her account. Police requested to document her wounds, but she declined, expressing reluctance to see Vance taken into custody that weekend, according to police accounts.
Despite her hesitation regarding prosecution, officers pressed forward with the investigation, noting the severity of injuries sustained by both the mother and child. A review of police records revealed that Vance had a prior conviction for domestic violence in Tiffin Municipal Court, following a case that resulted in a felony-level upgrade in 2005.
Law enforcement officials attempted to contact Vance but were unsuccessful. As evidence in the case mounted, charges were formally filed, including two counts each of assault and domestic violence, as well as charges of strangulation and endangering children.
A warrant for Vance’s arrest was issued, and on December 29, officers took him into custody. At the time of publication, Vance was no longer in jail and had a court appearance scheduled.
Authorities emphasize that the case serves as a reminder of the often-hidden trauma faced by victims of domestic violence, and urge anyone living in unsafe situations to seek out supportive resources. The investigation remains ongoing.