After his wife accused him of threatening to beat her, a domestic violence charge led to the arrest of an Alabama lawmaker.
Media reports state that a misdemeanor charge of third-degree domestic assault led to the arrest of Rep. Tracy Estes, 57, a Republican from Winfield, on Friday night. On Saturday afternoon, Marion County jail records showed he was no longer in custody.
Christina Estes, the lawmaker’s wife, claimed in a legal document that her husband began cursing at her during an altercation Friday evening at their house. She claims that when she locked herself in her bedroom, he spent two hours hammering on the door and threatening to beat her.
“This type of behavior has occurred numerous times since they have been married,” the court document stated.
Christina Estes secured a protective order from a judge, barring her husband from approaching her or their home within 300 feet (90 meters). A judge also ordered Tracy Estes to forfeit any firearms he possessed.
Tracy Estes’ phone number was not working Saturday, and he did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment. It was not immediately clear whether he had an attorney.
In 2018, Estes won an election to the Alabama House. His 17th District encompasses Lamar, Marion, and Winston counties in northwest Alabama.
House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter confirmed he was aware of the arrest.
“I’m aware of the situation concerning Rep. Estes and have full confidence that our justice system will determine an appropriate course of action,” Ledbetter said in a statement. “Alabamians deserve the very best from their elected officials, and it’s my expectation that House Members are beyond reproach in both their professional and personal lives.”
