LAVALE, MD – This morning, Allegany County Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a residence in Lavale for a reported assault in progress. The call was initiated by an out-of-area relative, who received a distressing video call from the victim.
Upon arrival, a Deputy observed through a window a woman unable to open the front door and a man, later identified as William Marshal, 69, assaulting something on the floor. Marshal ceased his actions when the Deputy shined a flashlight on him but then fled further into the residence. This allowed the woman to unlock the door for the Deputy.
The investigation revealed Marshal was assaulting his wife, but their dog Daisy intervened by biting him. In retaliation, Marshal strangled and assaulted Daisy. The Deputy’s timely arrival interrupted the violence.
Marshal was apprehended without further incident and transported to the Allegany County Detention Center, pending charges for assault, animal cruelty, and aggravated animal cruelty.
The victim received medical attention at UPMC Western Maryland for visible injuries. Daisy, the family dog, was also attended to by Allegany County Animal Control and taken to a local veterinarian for treatment of her injuries. This incident highlights the swift and effective response of law enforcement to protect both human and animal victims of domestic violence.