Cerro Gordo Couple Arrested Following Mutual Domestic Dispute

CERRO GORDO, NC — A husband and wife from Cerro Gordo have both been arrested following a physical domestic dispute at their residence.

On July 11, 2026, at 1:06 PM, Corporal Joseph R. Coleman of the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic violence call at a residence located on Rough and Ready Road.

Mutual Domestic Violence Booking

Upon arrival, Corporal Coleman investigated a physical altercation between the cohabitants. The investigation resulted in the arrest of both spouses.

The arrested parties are:

• Kenneth Carl Batten Jr., 33, of Cerro Gordo.

• Tabitha Mallissa Batten, 44, of Cerro Gordo.

Both defendants have been charged with a Misdemeanor Crime of Domestic Violence. In accordance with North Carolina domestic violence laws, both are being held at the Columbus County Detention Center under no bond.

All individuals listed are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
Charges and case statuses may change as investigations and court proceedings continue.