A central Iowa man is in jail for reportedly hitting his wife in the head with a hammer. Story County Sheriff’s Captain Barry Thomas says 49-year-old Ronald Beaston was arrested this morning in his hometown of Nevada. He’s accused of striking Valeria Beaston, while the two were traveling in a pick up truck last night.
Thomas says the victim was found bleeding from the head and nine hours later – Ronald Beaston was charged with attempted murder. Valeria Beaston told investigators she jumped out of the pick up after she was hit and her husband drove off.
Thomas says Valeria Beaston called 9-1-1 from a nearby residence. Her injuries were not considered life-threatening when she was taken to a Des Moines hospital – and this morning – she was no longer listed as a patient at the hospital.
Ronald Beaston has served jail time before this incident. Thomas says Mr. Beaston’s criminal record includes past charges of assault and going armed with intent. He’s currently in the Story County Jail on $100,000 bond.