Kanawha County woman charged with felony burglary after domestic dispute

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A Kanawha County woman named Anna Groves is facing felony burglary charges after allegedly trying to force her way into a chicken coop where James Hammack and his daughter Ashley Thompson were living, leading to a confrontation in which Thompson stabbed Groves.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the potential for domestic disputes to escalate into serious criminal charges, especially when they involve allegations of forced entry and violence. It also raises questions about living conditions and housing insecurity in the region.

The details

According to authorities, on March 31 deputies were called to Big Sandy Road for a reported disturbance. Hammack and Thompson said they were living in the chicken coop when Groves and her boyfriend Jason Groves tried to force their way inside. Thompson told police she was asleep when the Groves' arrived, and that Anna Groves entered the coop and threatened her, prompting Thompson to stab Groves. The Groves' had fled before deputies arrived, but Anna Groves later showed up at a local hospital as a stabbing victim. In a statement, Groves admitted she did not threaten Thompson but said she intended to confront her over money she claimed was stolen.

• On March 31, deputies were called to the scene of the reported disturbance.
• Thompson says she was asleep in the chicken coop when the incident occurred.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Authorities have issued a warrant for Anna Groves' arrest on felony burglary charges. No charges will be filed against Ashley Thompson.