BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — A Martin County man went to jail Monday after authorities said he assaulted a woman and pointed a rifle at her as she attempted to flee.

George Spence, 61, of Inez, was taken into custody on McKinney Road. His charges include second-degree unlawful imprisonment, first-degree wanton endangerment and assault (domestic violence) with minor injury.

According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Steve Putman responded to a report of a domestic disturbance involving firearms. Upon arrival, he found a woman who appeared visibly shaken and told officers she feared for her life.

The woman reported being shoved around inside the residence and pushed against a refrigerator. The officer observed bruising on her arm.

She managed to escape the home and reach her vehicle, but her attempt to leave was cut short.

The situation escalated when Spence allegedly followed the woman outside with an AR-10 rifle and pointed it at her through the windshield, authorities said. His grandson reportedly stepped between the two while Spence was still holding the weapon.

Spence eventually lowered the firearm but allegedly proceeded to flatten the woman’s tires. He then used his truck to block the driveway, preventing her from leaving.

Spence reportedly admitted to drinking beer and attributed his behavior to alcohol.

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