Argument Over Washing Machine Leads to Domestic Abuse Arrest

Geneva Police arrested Patrick Maher, 40, of Geneva on two charges of domestic battery—insulting or provoking contact and bodily harm to a family member—after an incident that occurred around 10:05 p.m. April 24 in the 200 block of McKinley Avenue, reports said.

Maher and the victim were involved in an argument over the use of a washing machine in the basement. The argument started in the children's bedrooms, and when the victim went to her bedroom to get away, Maher forced the door open, pushing her into the dresser. The victim was able to close the door and call police, reports said.

Patch reports on law enforcement activity in Geneva, using information provided by official agencies. Persons charged with a crime, or issued a citation for violation of a local ordinance, are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If you or a family member are charged with a crime or cited for a violation, and the charge or citation is subsequently adjudicated, we encourage you to notify Geneva editor Rick Nagel at rickn@patch.com and we will do follow-up reporting on the case.