A Providence city employee is facing serious criminal charges following an alleged domestic incident that unfolded inside her home earlier this week. Maria Reyes, 50, who works as a parking enforcement officer for the city, was arrested Wednesday morning after police say she pointed a firearm at her adult son during a family dispute.
Authorities have described the case as a domestic disturbance that escalated significantly, resulting in Maria Reyes being charged with felony domestic assault. The incident remains under active investigation as law enforcement officials continue to review the circumstances surrounding the confrontation.
According to police reports, officers were dispatched to a residence on Sumter Street after receiving calls regarding a domestic disturbance. Details about what initially sparked the argument have not been publicly disclosed, but authorities confirmed that the situation involved members of the same household. When officers arrived at the scene, they conducted an assessment of the situation and determined that a firearm had allegedly been pointed during the altercation.
Police said Maria Reyes was taken into custody without incident. There were no immediate reports of physical injuries resulting from the dispute, though the presence of a weapon significantly elevated the seriousness of the call. Law enforcement officials emphasized that incidents involving firearms, particularly in domestic settings, are treated with heightened concern due to the potential for escalation and harm.
Authorities have not released additional information about whether the firearm was loaded or legally owned. The focus of the current investigation is to establish a clear timeline of events and determine the full context of the confrontation.
Felony Domestic Assault Charge Filed
Following her arrest, Maria Reyes was charged with felony domestic assault. Under state law, felony domestic assault charges can carry substantial legal consequences, especially when a weapon is involved. The classification of the charge suggests that prosecutors believe the alleged actions met the threshold for a serious criminal offense.
Read : 51-Year-Old Man Charged with Assault & Aggravated Assault of Solo Hiker Sarah Gibbs
As a city employee, Maria Reyesā arrest may also prompt administrative review or disciplinary proceedings separate from the criminal case. Municipal employees are typically subject to internal conduct standards, particularly when allegations involve violent behavior. However, officials have not publicly commented on any employment-related actions at this time.
Legal experts note that domestic assault cases can be complex, particularly when they involve family members living under the same roof. Evidence, witness statements, and law enforcement assessments will likely play a key role as the case moves forward through the judicial process.
Police have confirmed that the incident remains under investigation. Investigators will continue gathering information, interviewing involved parties, and reviewing any available evidence before the case proceeds further in court. Additional details may emerge as the matter advances through preliminary hearings or formal court proceedings.
Domestic disputes that escalate to involve weapons often draw heightened attention due to the potential risks involved. Authorities routinely encourage individuals experiencing family conflicts to seek assistance through mediation services, counseling, or crisis support resources to prevent situations from intensifying. For now, Maria Reyes faces felony charges while the legal process unfolds. The outcome will depend on the findings of investigators and the determinations made by the court as the case progresses.