Man accused of punching and hurting stepfather in Baton Rouge

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office deputies investigated a possible instance of domestic battery involving a 70-year-old and his stepson.

That investigation led to Joseph Phenald, 31, being charged with simple battery of the infirm, domestic abuse battery and entry on or remaining in a place after being forbidden.

EBRSO responded to a location on Tom Drehr Drive a little before 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18. The 70-year-old man told deputies that Phenald started an argument with him, then pushed and punched him while in the driveway.

The man said he was hit multiple times in the face, chest and head. The sheriff’s office noted that he had multiple medical conditions at the time, including an implanted pacemaker.

The 70-year-old said he was hit on the chest where the pacemaker was located. EBRSO did not see any contusions in that spot.

Deputies did notice injuries on the man, including multiple lacerations. The man’s spouse said Phenald was evicted months before this incident.

Phenald lived in the home where this incident allegedly took place for many years and was raised by the man who was hit, according to the affidavit. Documents stated that he did not have a cell phone, was without a home and did not have a job.

Phenald was arrested on Wednesday, June 18, and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on the following day.

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