Atchison Woman Arrested for Violent Attack on Roommates

63-year-old Nena Dempsey accused of threatening two residents with a gun and assaulting one of them

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Police in Atchison, Kansas have arrested 63-year-old Nena Dempsey for an alleged violent attack on her two roommates. Dempsey is accused of threatening the 56-year-old man and 66-year-old woman with a handgun, locking them in a bedroom overnight, and physically assaulting the 66-year-old woman the following morning.

Why it matters

Violent domestic disputes can have serious consequences, both physically and emotionally, for the victims involved. This incident raises concerns about access to firearms, mental health issues, and the need for stronger domestic violence prevention and intervention programs in the local community.

The details

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, officers responded to a disturbance call around 8:30 PM on February 7th at a residence on Santa Fe Street. An investigation determined that around 10 PM the previous night, Dempsey had threatened her two roommates with a handgun and locked them in a bedroom, where they remained throughout the night. Dempsey is also accused of physically assaulting the 66-year-old woman, striking her in the face multiple times, on the following morning. Dempsey was arrested and booked into the county jail on charges of aggravated assault, criminal restraint, and battery. She remains in custody on a $50,000 bond.

  • The incident occurred around 10 PM on Thursday, February 6th.
  • Police responded to the disturbance call just after 8:30 PM on February 7th.
  • Dempsey allegedly assaulted the 66-year-old woman on the morning of Friday, February 8th.

The players

Nena Dempsey

A 63-year-old Atchison resident who has been accused of threatening her two roommates with a handgun, locking them in a bedroom, and physically assaulting one of them.

56-year-old man

One of Dempsey's roommates who was allegedly threatened and locked in a bedroom by Dempsey.

66-year-old woman

Another of Dempsey's roommates who was allegedly threatened, locked in a bedroom, and physically assaulted by Dempsey.

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What they’re saying

“We must take all domestic violence incidents seriously and ensure the safety of victims. This is a troubling situation that requires a thorough investigation.”

— Mike Wilson, Atchison Police Chief (kjo1055.com)

What’s next

Dempsey is scheduled to appear in court next week, where a judge will determine if she should be released on bail or remain in custody pending trial.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for greater awareness and resources to address domestic violence in the local community. Policymakers and law enforcement must work to ensure victims have access to support services and that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.