Quarrel over suspected pot use prompts domestic-violence related charges

Editor’s note: On Dec. 20, 2023, a Maricopa municipal judge dismissed Novosyolov’s charges. He was not found guilty of any crime.

A Maricopa man was arrested on Jan. 21 after an argument with a woman in which the man is accused of destroying a door in a home, a wooden chip from the door hitting the woman with whom he was arguing, according to Maricopa police. 

Pavel E. Novosyolov was arrested and booked into Pinal County jail on suspicion of criminal damage (domestic violence) and disorderly conduct (domestic violence), the probable-cause statement said. 

At about 3:15 p.m., Maricopa police were called to a home on North Van Loo Drive in Rancho El Dorado on a report of a disturbance. 

According to the probable-cause statement, Novosyolov reportedly yelled at a woman during an argument about his suspected marijuana use and the effects it has on his behavior.  

During the argument, Novosyolov reportedly destroyed the door to his bedroom, causing a piece of the door to hit the woman in the face. He then locked himself in a bathroom.  

A minor in the home hid in a bedroom during the exchange, according to police. 

When officers arrived, Novosyolov refused to leave the bathroom.  

Police forced the door open and arrested him.