Suspect in custody after assaulting family members, police officer during violent domestic incident
27-year-old Joshua J. Dunovsky was arrested by Alliance Police Saturday following authorities responding to a reported domestic dispute.
By News Channel NebraskaALLIANCE, Ne. — At about 12:37 a.m. Sept. 20, Alliance Police Lt. Tim Peterson responded to a 911 open-line call at a residence on Yellowstone Avenue.
The dispatcher reported hearing a commotion and a male voice threatening to kill someone in the background.
Upon arrival, Lt. Peterson heard a physical disturbance and the suspect yelling, “I’m gonna kill you.” Upon entering the residence, he encountered the suspect, identified as Joshua J. Dunovsky, a 27-year-old white male, in the hallway. Dunovsky immediately adopted an aggressive fighting stance and resisted attempts to place him into custody.
Despite repeated verbal commands, Dunovsky refused to comply and actively resisted arrest. A physical altercation ensued, during which Lt. Peterson called for backup. During the struggle, the suspect managed to free one hand and attempted to strangle Lt. Peterson.
Backup officers from the Alliance Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist. Upon their arrival, Lt. Peterson was still physically engaged with the suspect outside the residence.
The suspect was eventually subdued and handcuffed, though he continued to resist arrest even after being restrained.
A subsequent investigation revealed that prior to law enforcement’s arrival, the suspect had assaulted two family members during a domestic dispute. One victim sustained head injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The second victim declined medical transport.
Dunovsky was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Box Butte County Jail on the following charges:
• Two counts of 3rd Degree Assault
• Three counts of Strangulation
• Elder Abuse
• Assault on a Peace Officer
• Terroristic Threats
• Resisting Arrest
• Disturbing the Peace
Lt. Peterson did not sustain any serious injuries during this incident.
Chief David Leavitt extends his sincere gratitude to the Nebraska State Patrol and the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office for their swift and professional assistance during this dangerous situation.