Gainesville, FL – Deputies in Alachua County arrested a man early Saturday, November 15, 2025, after responding to reports of a violent domestic incident involving a pregnant woman and juveniles inside a residence on SW 20th Avenue.
According to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, multiple 911 callers reported hearing a disturbance shortly before deputies arrived. When officers entered the home, they found a woman who said she had been assaulted during an argument with the suspect, identified as 28-year-old Elijah Welch. Deputies said Welch appeared intoxicated and the altercation occurred near children who were present.
Authorities reported that Welch allegedly barricaded himself inside a locked room and ignored repeated commands to surrender. Deputies warned him about the possible use of a K-9 before forcing entry. A police dog eventually apprehended Welch as he continued to resist, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies also documented property damage throughout the residence, including an area where Welch allegedly urinated on furniture where juveniles had been lying.
After being medically cleared at a local hospital, Welch was booked into jail. He faces charges of Aggravated Battery on a Pregnant Victim, Child Neglect Without Great Bodily Harm, and Resisting Without Violence, according to authorities.
The sheriff’s office said no deputies or additional residents were injured during the arrest.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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