Audrain County man accused of punishing woman by removing thermostat to make residence cold

Audrain County deputies arrested Michael Folta on Friday after officers responded to reports of domestic assault in the 800 block of East 5th Street in Laddonia.

According to the probable cause statement, Folta and a female victim were having an argument when things escalated and Folta pushed the woman to the ground.

Deputies said they saw redness, swelling, a bruise and a cut on the woman.

The woman told officers that Folta had also removed the thermostat from the wall to intentionally stop the heater from working. She said that Folta often does that as a way to punish her by making the residence very cold.

Deputies said during the altercation, a three-year-old boy was present and tried to stop Folta from assaulting the woman more.

According to the probable cause statement, Folta was physically abusive in the past.

Folta was charged with domestic assault, harassment and endangering the welfare of a child.