CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A Chillicothe man was taken into custody following an assault investigation at a North High Street apartment complex, according to a report from the Chillicothe Police Department.
Officers were dispatched at approximately 9:52 p.m. on March 23, 2026, to 570 N. High Street, Apartment 1, in reference to a reported assault.
According to the report filed by Officer James Kight, officers made contact with the victim, identified as Thomas Battista, who stated that his upstairs neighbor, Gerald Harper, had assaulted him.
Battista reported that Harper punched him in the mouth and pushed him down the steps outside his apartment. The two then reportedly fell to the ground and began wrestling.
Officer Kight observed visible injuries, including bleeding from Battista’s head, mouth, left arm, and legs. Lacerations were noted on his legs, and Battista reported that his bottom teeth were loosened from being struck. Blood was also observed pooling on the floor inside the apartment.
Police also noted broken glass from a nearby light fixture near the steps where the altercation allegedly occurred.
Battista told officers he believed Harper may have been drinking alcohol prior to the incident.
Medics responded to the scene and transported Battista to Adena Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.
Officers spoke with a neighboring resident, who reported they did not see or hear the altercation. No surveillance cameras or independent witnesses were identified.
Officers initially attempted to make contact with Harper at his apartment but were unsuccessful. Based on the victim’s injuries and statement, Officer Kight advised that a warrant would be requested for Harper on a charge of assault.
During a follow-up investigation on March 24, Officer Kight made contact with Harper at his residence. Harper denied that any physical altercation had occurred. However, Officer Kight observed fresh cuts and scrapes on Harper’s right hand, which he was unable to explain.
Harper was advised of the warrant and taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Ross County Jail to await his court appearance.
Battista later signed a medical release for documentation of his injuries and indicated he wished to pursue charges.
The case has been forwarded to Chillicothe Municipal Court.
All individuals are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
