A 64-year-old man in Virginia, United States, has landed himself in serious legal trouble after allegedly restraining his wife with tape and leaving her tied to a chair in their basement so he could enjoy watching football upstairs without interruption.
The suspect, identified as Terry Ward, was arrested on October 11, 2026, following a domestic disturbance at his residence in Richmond, Virginia.
According to reports citing a criminal complaint, police officers responded to the property at approximately 11:30 p.m. after receiving information about a domestic dispute.
Upon arrival, officers spoke with Ward’s wife, who reportedly revealed that her husband had tied her to a chair in the basement while he went upstairs to watch a football game.
A 64 year old man in Virginia has been charged with duct-taping his wife to a chair in the basement so he could watch football upstairs “in peace” https://t.co/hu1Sz580Kd
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) October 21, 2026
Wife Allegedly Restrained for Nearly 45 Minutes
The woman told investigators that she remained restrained for approximately 30 to 45 minutes before the situation came to the attention of authorities.
Police reportedly observed visible marks and sticky tape residue on both of her arms, consistent with her account of being physically restrained.
In a surprising development, Ward allegedly admitted during questioning that he had tied his wife to the chair and left her in the basement.
Investigators believe the incident was motivated by his desire to watch Sunday Night Football without being disturbed.
Although several reports describe the material used as duct tape, the available accounts of the criminal complaint refer more generally to tape.
Husband Faces Serious Criminal Charges
Following the incident, authorities charged Ward with felony abduction and misdemeanor assault against a family member.
The allegations have generated widespread reactions on social media, with many expressing disbelief over the circumstances surrounding the arrest.
While some online discussions have focused on the unusual connection to football, others have emphasized the seriousness of the alleged domestic violence.
Under Virginia law, abduction is a serious criminal offense that can attract significant prison time if a defendant is convicted.
Ward is expected to appear before the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court on November 10, 2026, as proceedings continue.
The case has renewed conversations about domestic abuse, unlawful restraint and the importance of resolving household disagreements without violence.
Despite the reported admission documented in the criminal complaint, Ward remains legally presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
