Man arrested on charges of holding woman against her will

Spokane County Sheriff’s SWAT members forced their way into a Spokane Valley house this morning to free a woman being held against her will. They also arrested Nicholas S. Smith, 30, on multiple charges. The incident began at 6:35 a.m. when a man called 911 and reported Smith physically kicked him out of the residence in the 200 block of North Blake Road. The caller also said Smith would not allow Smith’s girlfriend leave. Spokane Valley sheriff’s deputies arrived but could not find the witness and did not get a response at the residence. While checking the area and talking with neighbors, deputies found evidence of a possible struggle in the yard but could not confirm anyone was inside, the sheriff’s office said. Domestic Violence Unit detectives were contacted. Having previous history with Smith and knowledge there is a “no contact order” in place, they began working to secure a search warrant for the residence while deputies secured the scene, authorities said. A short time later, Smith’s parents arrived at the residence. Deputies confirmed with them that Smith was inside with the female. Smith refused to exit and would not allow the female to leave. Perimeter deputies also observed the widow curtains move. Not knowing what weapons were inside and that the victim was being held against her will, the SWAT and hostage negotiation teams were called to the scene. Additional attempts to contact Smith were unsuccessful, the sheriff’s office said. The front door was opened by the victim, but Smith quickly grabbed her and forcefully pulled her back inside and slammed the door, according to a sheriff’s news release. The SWAT team forced entry into the residence, safely freed the victim and took Smith into custody. Smith was not injured and apologized as he was placed in handcuffs. The victim was checked by medical staff as a precaution. Smith was booked into the Spokane County Jail for felony charges of second-degree assault, unlawful imprisonment and violation of a no contact order. The investigation continues and additional changes are possible.