A Georgia man is facing multiple criminal charges after police say an argument with his wife over alleged methamphetamine use escalated into a violent domestic dispute that was reportedly witnessed and recorded by the couple’s teenage daughter.
According to authorities in Oakwood, Georgia, 35-year-old Justin Mark Shultz was arrested after his wife confronted him about allegedly smoking methamphetamine inside a closet in their home. Police say the woman demanded that Shultz dispose of the drugs by flushing them down a toilet. However, tensions rose when he reportedly went into a bathroom and refused to allow her to observe him getting rid of the suspected narcotics.
Investigators say the confrontation became physical when the woman attempted to prevent the bathroom door from closing. According to police reports, Shultz allegedly pushed his wife away, tried to bite her, and ultimately threw her to the floor before locking himself back inside the bathroom. The woman then called 911, but authorities say Shultz fled the residence before officers arrived.
When officers responded to the scene, they reportedly found the woman suffering from visible injuries, including redness on her face and arms as well as bite marks on one of her arms. Police said the couple’s teenage daughter captured video of the incident on her cellphone, a detail that investigators say contributed to additional charges.
Hall County jail records show Shultz was charged with battery and multiple counts of cruelty to children. Authorities allege the presence of the minor during the violent altercation played a role in the child-cruelty charges.
Court records indicate a bond of $9,600 was set, though reports state Shultz remained in custody at the Hall County Jail following his arrest. The case remains under investigation and additional court proceedings are expected in the coming weeks.
