Intoxicated Man Charged with Battering 65-Year-Old Mother, Family Dog

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A 39-year-old Des Plaines man has been charged with felony aggravated battery after allegedly attacking his 65-year-old mother and the family dog while intoxicated last week. Police say Sean Barnes returned home upset and began assaulting the dog, and when his mother intervened to stop the attack, he turned on her, punching and kicking her until she fell to the ground.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents involving intoxicated individuals can escalate quickly and put vulnerable family members at serious risk of harm. This case highlights the need for greater mental health and substance abuse resources to help prevent such violent outbursts in the home.

The details

According to the Des Plaines Police Department, the incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on February 18th in the 300 block of Elk Boulevard. Officers arrived at the home after Barnes had returned and allegedly become violent, first attacking the family dog before turning on his 65-year-old mother when she tried to intervene. Police say Barnes struck his mother in the back of the head with a closed fist, causing her to fall to the ground, at which point he continued punching and kicking her.

• The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on February 18, 2026.
• Barnes' next court date is scheduled for Tuesday.

What’s next

Barnes' next court date is scheduled for Tuesday, where a judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail.