SCIOTO COUNTY, Ohio — In a startling incident at the New Boston Police Department, an officer was assaulted early Saturday morning, March 8, 2025, while attempting to subdue an erratic individual. The altercation, reported to have started at 8:34 a.m., triggered an immediate response from local law enforcement, including Scioto County deputies, detectives, and Portsmouth Police officers.
The officer involved sustained injuries and was subsequently treated at Southern Ohio Medical Center (SOMC) and released. The assailant, identified as 18-year-old Kaleb D. Ruth from Wheelersburg, was also taken to SOMC for evaluation regarding suspected drug use, though he reported no injuries himself.
Authorities stated that the incident escalated when Ruth attempted to steal a vehicle in the police department’s parking lot. When the officer intervened, Ruth forcibly removed the officer’s taser and repeatedly struck the officer in the face and head. A bystander who witnessed the event aided the officer in restraining Ruth until backup arrived.
Ruth faces several serious charges including Felonious Assault on an Officer, Robbery, two counts of Grand Theft Auto, and Retaliation. He is currently held on a $120,000 bond in the Scioto County Jail and is expected to face these charges in Portsmouth Municipal Court on Monday, March 10, 2025.
As the investigation continues, Sheriff David Thoroughman has stated more charges may be forthcoming. The sheriff’s office has called on the public to come forward with any further information by contacting Detective Sergeant Jodi Conkel at 740-351-1091, underscoring the gravity of the case and the need for community involvement.