Domestic Violence Charges Reduced in Plea Deal

(GERING, Neb.) — A 32-year-old Scottsbluff man has entered into a plea agreement in Scotts Bluff County District Court following an August domestic disturbance involving allegations of assault and threats.

Eli J. Gonzalez was arrested shortly after midnight Aug. 31, 2026, after Scottsbluff police officers responded to a report of a physical disturbance at a residence at 503 W. 31st St.

According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Scottsbluff Police Officer Andrew Leishman, a victim at the residence reported getting into an argument with Gonzalez, during which he allegedly forced his way into a bedroom and attempted to take a young child.

As the victim attempted to leave, Gonzalez allegedly grabbed the victim by the hair and pulled the victim backward on the stairs, broke a cellphone in the kitchen and attempted to strike the victim in the stomach while making physical threats.

Leishman reported observing blood on the bridge of Gonzalez’s nose, visible damage to a bedroom door and a broken phone case.

Gonzalez was initially charged with nine counts, including Class IIIA felony domestic assault, child abuse and terroristic threats.

Under the terms of a written plea agreement filed with the court, the state agreed to dismiss six counts, including both felony charges and the child abuse charge.

In exchange, Gonzalez agreed to plead guilty or no contest to three misdemeanor charges:

• Criminal mischief, less than $500 — Class 3 misdemeanor
• Disturbing the peace — Class 3 misdemeanor
• Disturbing the peace — Class 3 misdemeanor

During court proceedings Oct. 2, 2026, District Judge Leo Dobrovolny presided over a hearing in which Gonzalez appeared by video from the detention center.

Dobrovolny appointed the Public Defender’s Office to represent Gonzalez and granted a bond reduction to own recognizance.

A formal change-of-plea hearing is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Oct. 15, 2026, in Scotts Bluff County District Courtroom No. 2.