NORWICH – The Norwich Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance Monday in which a convicted felon allegedly struck family members, pets, and destroyed property before the victim attempted to give the man a firearm as he left the scene.

John J. Cole, Pleasant Street, Norwich, was arrested Monday after having a physical confrontation with his wife and brother-in-law. Police said Cole struck the brother-in-law and caused a gash above his eyebrow that required medical attention. Police said witnesses reported that during the dispute, Cole allegedly tore a door off his residence and kicked the family dog, all while in the presence of his three children.

According to police, Cole is a felon with two prior convictions but is not currently on parole or probation. He is forbidden by New York State Law to possess firearms and police discovered a shotgun in plain view at the residence when they arrived.