Weber County man arrested, accused of strangling victim in assault

WEST HAVEN, Utah (ABC4) — A West Haven man was taken into custody on Thursday morning, Feb. 6, after allegedly strangling a victim during a domestic violence situation the night before.

Michael Russo, 34, was booked into the Weber County Jail, where he faces charges of aggravated assault, domestic violence in the presence of a child, child abuse, and tampering with a witness.

Lt. Sean Endsley from the Weber County Sheriff’s Office said they received a call from the victim after they were able to get away from Russo and dial 911. Deputies said the victim had injuries that were consistent with the alleged crime and provided them with a medical exam.

The next morning, investigators worked to locate Russo and apprehend him. Endsley said investigators received information that Russo had returned to the West Haven home, prompting multiple deployments including a drone team and K9 unit. A reverse 911 call was also put into place to caution residents in the area.

“The suspect initially refused to cooperate with law enforcement and surrender,” Lt. Endsley said in a press release. “Pursuant to a search warrant for the home, deputies prepared to breach the home and take the suspect into custody. The suspect surrendered as deputies approached the front door.”

Endsley said the Weber County Sheriff’s Office was grateful the victim was able to escape the dangerous situation and call for help.

He added that if you or someone you know in the Weber County area needs help to report a domestic violence situation, call the Weber Area Dispatch at 801-395-8221. If it is an emergency situation and you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. Other Weber area domestic violence resources are available through the Your Community Connection (YCC) Family Crisis Center at yccogden.org.