Man Breaks Key Off In Ignition, Slashes Tires In Child Custody Dispute

A man allegedly broke a key off in the ignition and slashed the tires of a party he is having a child custody dispute with, leading to his arrest and two charges.

Patrick R. Sullivan, 40, Washington, has been charged with stealing a motor vehicle and first-degree property damage.

Sullivan is being held on a $50,000 bond.

According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department, deputies on Jan. 21 were called to the area of Julie Ann Court in the Washington area for a child custody dispute.

Ryan left the scene and took a car he did not own.

Deputies canvassed the area, but were unable to locate Sullivan or the vehicle.

An hour later, neighbors reported Sullivan had returned to the residence and damaged the vehicle by slashing the tires.

When deputies arrived, Sullivan and the party were arguing in the parking lot.

The vehicle’s owner opted to press charges against Sullivan, who was taken into custody and transported to the Franklin County Adult Detention Center.