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Cordes Lakes man facing multiple charges for 'horrific' assault on wife and son

Ellsworth, Richard Fredrick.jpg
Posted at 12:51 PM, Dec 17, 2020
and last updated 2020-12-17 16:43:06-05

CORDES LAKES, AZ — A northern Arizona man is facing multiple charges after reportedly assaulting his wife and attempting to kidnap his special needs son in October.

The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office said 51-year-old Richard Ellsworth was arrested on October 5 for assault, and later charged with disorderly conduct and violent threats against his 18-year-old special needs son.

Deputies on Oct. 5 responded to a report of a badly beaten woman at a home in Cordes Lakes.

Authorities said Ellswoth's 48-year-old wife was found with serious injuries by the landlady and another person who were in town from Phoenix collecting late rent. The pair said they told Ellsworth that his wife needed medical attention, which he denied. They soon left the property and called 911.

Upon arrival, Yavapai County deputies found Ellsworth's special needs son loading a car with items. He reportedly told deputies he was going on a trip with his dad, but officials believed Ellsworth was preparing to leave with his son and leave his wife severely injured inside the home.

The victim was found by deputies inside the house with serious injuries to her arms and face.

Ellsworth told authorities his wife had come home in that condition and suggested the injuries were caused by an alleged boyfriend with whom he claimed she was having an affair.

The victim was later transported to a Phoenix-area hospital to be treated.

Following Ellsworth's arrest, an investigation was started by YCSO where it was revealed that the victim had suffered extensive injuries across her body. Detectives also learned that the couple's special needs son had recorded portions of the assault on his cell phone.

Detectives and a prosecutor with the Yavapai County Attorney's Office obtained a no-bond status on Ellsworth following a hearing. Ellsworth had previously attempted to post a $25,000 bond but detectives had the bail increased to $50,000 as they believed Ellsworth could attempt to flee.

Ellsworth is currently facing multiple charges that include attempted first-degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated assault. He was also charged with sexual assault against both his wife and the special needs son.

The investigation remains ongoing.