Man accused of assaulting grandfather, criminal damage

A Maricopa man faces domestic violence charges after his arrest Saturday.

Marlen Pierson is charged with domestic violence threats, assault, and criminal damage after an argument turned physical, police said.

Around 9 p.m., Maricopa officers responded to a domestic disturbance call at a home on West Cowpath Road in Senita. The report stated a man, identified as Pierson, had a verbal argument with his grandfather, who also lives at the residence. When Pierson allegedly chased his grandfather around the garage, the man ran inside and locked Pierson in the garage, police said.

Pierson allegedly kicked the door open, breaking the door frame, and left the home. On his return to the home about an hour later, his grandfather was asleep. Pierson allegedly struck the man with his fist, leaving a bruise on the side of his face. He allegedly told his grandfather, repeatedly, that he was going to kill him, according to the police report.

When interviewed by police, Pierson allegedly admitted to hitting his grandfather but said he only slapped him. While searching the residence, officers found an e-cigarette cartridge containing residue that tested positive for THC. Pierson stated it was his marijuana pen and he had a medical marijuana card but was unable to provide it at the time.

Pierson was arrested and booked into Pinal County Jail. He has since been released according to online jail records.

If convicted, he would face up to 6 months in jail, according to Arizona statute