Woman punches pregnant healthcare worker in stomach, assaults law enforcement

ROMNEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – One woman has been arrested after becoming violent with healthcare workers and law enforcement.

According to a criminal complaint, on Monday, September 9, 2024, at approximately 3:54 PM, law enforcement officers responded to a report of an assault at a Rescare facility in Romney.

The incident involved a client, 35-year-old Tasha Murphy, who allegedly became violent toward the staff and other clients.

According to the initial report, the caregiver on duty called 911 after being struck twice by Murphy.

One of the strikes hit the caregiver in the stomach, causing concern due to the caregiver’s pregnancy.

Rescare policy prohibits staff from physically restraining clients, so law enforcement was called to handle the situation, according to the complaint.

Upon arrival, officers observed Murphy acting violently, attempting to strike another staff member multiple times.

Officers intervened to prevent further escalation and restrained Murphy. During the incident, she reportedly assaulted several people, including law enforcement officers.

The situation was further complicated by the fact that Murphy was in the custody of the state and could not be relocated to a facility outside West Virginia.

Attempts had been made to place her in a more secure environment, but no available beds were found in the area. Murphy had a history of similar incidents at another facility.

Ultimately, the decision was made to place Murphy under arrest for two counts of battery on a healthcare worker, two counts of battery on law enforcement, and one count of assault on a law enforcement officer.

She was transported to a local hospital for a medical evaluation and then to the regional jail for arraignment.

Murphy is currently at Potomac Highlands Regional Jail on a $1,512 bond.