By Tiffany Williams –
Painted Post, N.Y. — What police say began as a domestic dispute inside a quiet village home quickly escalated into a violent confrontation, a protection order violation and a drug arrest.
New York State Police say 28-year-old Cody B. Clemons of Woodhull was arrested following the February 28 investigation of a domestic disturbance at a residence on East High Street in the village of Painted Post in Steuben County.
Troopers were called to the home at approximately 2:19 p.m.
What investigators say they uncovered was far more serious than a simple argument.
According to state police, Clemons allegedly became involved in a physical altercation with a woman during a verbal dispute. During the confrontation, investigators say Clemons applied pressure to the victim’s neck, restrained her and damaged her cell phone.
Troopers also determined something else that dramatically escalated the situation.
The incident allegedly happened while Clemons was under an active order of protection.
In other words, investigators say he was not supposed to be engaging with the victim at all.
After responding to the scene, troopers quickly began searching for Clemons.
They located him a short distance away on North Hamilton Street in Painted Post.
Police say Clemons was taken into custody without further incident.
But the investigation did not stop with the arrest.
During a search of Clemons, troopers say they discovered approximately 8.2 grams of suspected methamphetamine.
He was transported to State Police barracks in Painted Post for processing.
Now Clemons is facing a stack of criminal charges tied to the incident.
Authorities charged him with Criminal Contempt 1st degree (E felony), Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th degree (A misdemeanor), Unlawful Imprisonment 2nd degree (A misdemeanor), Criminal Mischief in the 4th Degree (A misdemeanor), and Criminal Obstruction of Breathing or Blood Circulation (A misdemeanor).
Following processing, Clemons was transported to the Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment.
For investigators, the case reflects a dangerous mix that law enforcement confronts all too often — domestic violence allegations, violation of court orders designed to protect victims and the presence of illegal drugs during the arrest.
The case now moves into the court system as prosecutors review the charges and the evidence gathered by state police.