A Columbia County deputy, Gilbert Lopez, 55, was arrested and subsequently fired on Tuesday following a domestic dispute at his residence. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office reported that Lopez was charged with disorderly conduct, a county ordinance violation, after an incident involving his wife.

Deputies responded to a call at Lopez’s home, where it was reported that during an argument, Lopez threw a Rolodex in frustration, which struck his wife in the chest. Lopez claimed that he did not intend to hit her, asserting that he threw the item out of anger. Following this, his wife locked herself inside the house, fearing for her safety. Lopez attempted to enter by pushing the door with his foot, resulting in a hole in the door.

Following the incident, Lopez was transported to the Columbia County Detention Center. He was issued a county ordinance citation for disorderly conduct instead of facing a state charge of simple battery. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed Lopez’s termination on the same day.