Aiken, October 21, 2025

News Summary

Markael Forrest, 28, has been arrested for first-degree domestic violence after a violent incident involving his 24-year-old partner. The dispute escalated at a hotel where their two young children were present. Police reports detail the struggle, including an attempt to prevent her from calling for help. Forrest is now held at the Aiken County detention center awaiting further legal action. This incident brings attention to the pressing issue of domestic violence in communities.

Aiken – Markael Forrest, a 28-year-old man, was arrested on October 17 for first-degree domestic violence related to an incident that took place on March 8. The arrest comes after a thorough investigation by the Aiken Department of Public Safety, which has been handling the case since the incident was reported.

The incident involved a domestic dispute with a 24-year-old female victim and occurred in a hotel room, where the victim’s two young children were also present. According to police reports, the conflict erupted when Forrest became upset about the victim having gone out with his mother the night before.

The situation escalated into a violent altercation when the victim attempted to call 911 for help. As she was trying to dial the emergency number, Forrest allegedly took her phone away from her. In an effort to seek help, the victim then tried to use the hotel phone, but Forrest reportedly tried to strangle her with the phone cord from behind.

As the struggle continued, Forrest began to strangle the victim using both hands. During the incident, the victim was pushed to the ground, although she did not lose consciousness. The assault came to a halt only when a family member knocked on the hotel room door, prompting Forrest to flee the scene before law enforcement arrived.

Following the incident, police reports were filed, leading to Forrest’s eventual arrest. He is currently being held at the Aiken County detention center, where he awaits further legal proceedings related to the first-degree domestic violence charge.

This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding domestic violence, which remains a significant problem within many communities. Domestic violence encompasses a range of abusive behaviors used by one partner against another in an intimate relationship, and incidents like these underscore the importance of reporting and responding to such violent acts.

Law enforcement agencies continue to encourage victims of domestic violence to seek help and report any incidents to the authorities. In many cases, support services are available to assist victims in leaving abusive situations and finding safety.

Key Details

• Incident Date: March 8
• Victim’s Age: 24 years old
• Forrest’s Age: 28 years old
• Current Status: Held at Aiken County detention center
• Charge: First-degree domestic violence

Context of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a widespread issue that affects many individuals, regardless of age, gender, or background. It is critical for local communities to provide resources for education and support, as well as to foster an environment where victims feel safe and empowered to speak out against their abusers. The Aiken Department of Public Safety emphasizes the importance of awareness and quick reporting of such incidents to aid in effectively addressing this significant societal challenge.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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FBI Ends Partnership with Southern Poverty Law Center
Cumbee Center Launches Domestic Violence Awareness Initiatives
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Aiken Man Arrested for Domestic Violence
Kilmar Ábrego García’s Deportation Dilemma to Eswatini
Aiken Man Arrested for Assaulting Four Women During Dispute
Unprovoked Stabbing Incident at Walmart in Michigan
Violent Incidents in Aiken County Raise Public Safety Concerns
Aiken Community Hosts Youth Fun Festival to Combat Gun Violence

Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Markael Forrest Domestic Violence Arrest
• WJBF: Golf Club, Scooter Used as Weapons in Domestic Incident
• Augusta Chronicle: Man Charged with Breach of Peace
• WACH: Aiken Man Arrested, Ex-Girlfriend Still Missing
• Wikipedia: Domestic Violence

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

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