Spartanburg, SC – A weekend domestic incident escalated into violence after a South Carolina woman attempted to stop her intoxicated husband from getting behind the wheel, according to police. Officers say the dispute began over a cigarette and ended with the woman being punched in the face as she tried to keep her husband from driving drunk.
Incident Overview
Spartanburg Police responded to a home on Boxwood Lane on Sunday, where they found a woman seeking safety at a neighbor’s house. She told officers that her husband, 68-year-old Michael Disantos, became enraged after she smoked his last cigarette. The argument escalated quickly, with the woman alleging that Disantos was intoxicated, threatened her, and attempted to leave the home to buy more cigarettes.
Police say she grabbed his keys to prevent him from driving under the influence. That is when Disantos allegedly struck her in the face, causing a bloody nose.
What Police Found at the Scene
Officers reported that the woman had fled to a nearby home for safety. She described multiple attempts by Disantos to strike her, though only one hit landed. She cited his impaired state and his medical history, including past strokes, as factors contributing to the severity of the confrontation.
When officers later spoke with Disantos at the couple’s residence, they said he smelled strongly of alcohol. He denied being violent toward his wife at first, but according to the report, later admitted to striking her. Police also noted blood on his knuckles and a trail of blood on the floor leading into the kitchen.
Wife’s Account to Investigators
According to the report, the woman told officers she only took the keys to stop him from driving drunk and intended to buy the cigarettes herself. She also stated that an ongoing disagreement about her encouraging him to enter rehab contributed to his anger.
She told police she did not wish to press charges, but officers proceeded with an arrest based on the evidence and severity of the incident.
Charges and Legal Action
Disantos was taken into custody and transported to the Spartanburg County Detention Center. He was charged with domestic violence and later issued a $1,500 bond. As part of the court’s conditions, he was ordered to have no contact with his wife.
His next court appearance is scheduled for February 26, 2026.
Domestic Violence and Impaired Driving Risks
Incidents of domestic violence often intensify when alcohol is involved, according to public safety officials. In this case, police emphasized that the woman’s attempt to stop her husband from driving while intoxicated likely prevented a potentially dangerous situation for both the family and the public. Officers told Disantos that she had acted to protect him and others on the road.
Alcohol-related domestic disputes remain a significant concern nationwide, particularly during holiday and weekend periods when drinking tends to increase. Local authorities urge families to take immediate steps to remove themselves from escalating confrontations and to call law enforcement when safety is at risk.
Community Awareness
Spartanburg Police continue to highlight the importance of reporting domestic violence early, especially when intoxication or threats are involved. They remind residents that evidence-based arrests can proceed even when the victim does not wish to press charges, as the priority is immediate safety.
If you or someone you know is in danger, local hotlines and support services are available throughout Spartanburg County to assist victims in crisis.
Have you witnessed similar situations in your community? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
