Staff Reports
PIMA — Jeremiah Rios, 44, was arrested Saturday evening following a reported domestic disturbance near the Gila River Bridge on Main Street and Safford Bryce Road just north of Pima.
According to reports from the Graham County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 6:31 p.m. to a welfare check after a passerby reported seeing a man yelling at a woman and holding an unknown object near a gold-colored GMC SUV parked on the roadside. Witnesses described signs of a struggle, including a broken alcoholic beverage bottle and scattered items near the vehicle.
Upon arrival, officers located Rios lying unresponsive in the rear cargo area of the SUV, covered in blankets and appearing heavily intoxicated. Additional units secured the scene due to concerns of a possible armed suspect and domestic violence. After making contact under medical exigency, Rios identified himself and provided limited information about an argument with his girlfriend, claiming it remained verbal.
Further investigation revealed damage to the SUV: two tires had been slashed with punctures consistent with a blade, and the passenger-side windshield showed impact cracks. A black knife with a window-punch feature, later confirmed as the weapon used, was recovered nearby and booked into evidence.
Rios was placed under arrest around 8:31 p.m. for disorderly conduct and criminal damage (domestic violence-related). During the arrest and subsequent transport, he resisted officers, shouted profanities, and physically assaulted two deputies by kicking them in the thigh while being escorted into Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center for medical clearance before booking. He also repeatedly manipulated his handcuffs from behind his back to the front and refused to comply with directives.
After he was medically cleared, Rios was booked into Graham County jail on two counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer, resisting arrest, criminal damage over $1,000 (domestic violence), and disorderly conduct (domestic violence).
The incident stemmed from an argument during camping, escalating to property damage and the victim’s flight from the scene with assistance from a passing motorist who transported her to safety. The vehicle owner estimated repair costs at approximately $2,500 for the tires and window.
No injuries were reported to the victim beyond the property damage, and she expressed fear of future contact due to prior domestic incidents. The Graham County Attorney’s Office now has the case.
