York Man Changes Plea in Child Custody Altercation Case

Charges dismissed against Francis Neville IV, who pleaded no contest to misdemeanor assault

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A York man has changed his plea in a case involving an altercation with the mother of his child and a subsequent driving incident last July. Francis Neville IV initially faced several felony charges, including child abuse and domestic assault, but all but one misdemeanor charge were dismissed this week. He has pleaded no contest and is scheduled for sentencing in April.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex and often volatile situations that can arise around child custody disputes, which can escalate to violence and reckless behavior that puts children at risk. It also raises questions about the criminal justice system's approach to such cases and whether plea bargains adequately address the underlying issues.

The details

According to police, on July 4th, officers were called to a disturbance involving Neville and Madison White, the mother of his child. The two were involved in a physical altercation, with the child present. They then left the scene in separate vehicles, with White following Neville. During the pursuit, the vehicles collided, but both drivers continued on. Deputies were eventually able to stop both vehicles and take the parties into custody.

  • On July 4, officers were called to a disturbance involving Neville and White at 5:12 p.m.
  • The vehicles collided during the pursuit, but both drivers continued on.
  • Deputies were eventually able to stop both vehicles and take the parties into custody.

The players

Francis Neville IV

A 29-year-old York man who was initially charged with several felonies related to the incident, but had all but one misdemeanor charge dismissed this week.

Madison White

The mother of Neville's child, who was involved in the altercation and pursuit with Neville.

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What they’re saying

“'On July 4, at 5:12 p.m., officers with the York Police Department were dispatched to a disturbance in the 1600 block of N. Iowa Ave, York.'”

— Sgt. Taylor Samek, York County Sheriff's Office (justmelaniew.com)

What’s next

Neville is scheduled for sentencing on the remaining misdemeanor assault charge on April 13.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for better support and intervention in child custody disputes to prevent them from escalating to violence and putting children at risk. It also raises questions about the criminal justice system's approach to such cases and whether plea bargains adequately address the underlying issues.