A Columbus, Ohio, man is facing felony charges after allegedly breaking into his ex-girlfriend's home using a key he claimed to have lost, then attacking her with a machete in a domestic dispute that left her with cuts to her head and hands. Robert Robbins, 40, was taken into custody over the weekend and charged with one count of felonious assault with a deadly weapon, court records show.
Background
The incident began the previous evening when Robbins reportedly returned to the home after being gone for several days. According to police reports, the two argued outside before the victim retreated into the house. Robbins allegedly remained outside for hours, repeatedly knocking on the door and pleading to be let in. By the following morning, the victim believed Robbins had finally left, but she was mistaken.
Officers with the Columbus Division of Police responded shortly before 8 a.m. to a residence in the 600 block of S. 22nd Street regarding a reported domestic violence incident. First responders found the victim inside with a large laceration on her head. She identified Robbins as her ex-boyfriend and stated that he had attacked her with a machete.
The Investigation
According to statements given to investigators, Robbins allegedly used a secret key to enter the victim's home while she believed he had departed. The victim reported that Robbins had previously told her he had lost this key. Once inside, Robbins allegedly became upset that she had refused to admit him earlier. He then approached her with a machete concealed behind his back.
The attack escalated when Robbins allegedly climbed atop the victim and began cutting off her hair as she struggled to free herself. During the physical struggle, the victim sustained lacerations to her head and hands. Medics transported the victim to Ohio Health Grant Medical Center, where she was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Robert Robbins allegedly used a key he claimed to have lost to enter the victim's home after she refused to let him in.
- The victim suffered cuts to her head and hands and had her hair cut off during the alleged attack.
- Robbins was charged with one count of felonious assault with a deadly weapon.
- The victim was transported to Ohio Health Grant Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
- Robbins' bond was set at $50,000 with strict no-contact and substance restrictions.
What's Next
Robbins remains in custody pending further legal proceedings. With bond set at $50,000, he faces strict no-contact orders and substance restrictions while the case moves through the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas. Investigators from the Columbus Division of Police continue to review evidence, including witness statements and the physical condition of the machete, as prosecutors prepare for the next scheduled court appearance.