A 64-year-old man in Richmond, Virginia, is currently facing serious criminal charges after allegedly restraining his wife in their basement so he could watch a football game without any interruption.

The incident unfolded on Sunday, October 11, 2026, when local police officers responded to a reported domestic disturbance at the couple's residence around 11:30 pm.

Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement officers took a statement from the suspect's wife, who alleged that her husband had used tape to physically bind her to a chair before leaving her trapped in the basement.

According to the criminal complaint filed in a Richmond court, the victim informed investigating officers that she believed she was restrained for approximately 30 to 45 minutes.

Officers at the scene observed physical evidence corroborating her statement, including visible marks and adhesive tape residue around both of her arms.

Reports citing Virginia Statewide Incidents indicated that the husband, identified as Terry Ward, allegedly committed the act so he could watch Sunday Night Football upstairs without distraction.

When questioned by police, Ward admitted to the act. As noted by the investigating officer in the criminal complaint, "Terry stated that he did indeed tie his wife to a chair and place her down in the basement".

Following his confession, Ward was arrested and charged with one felony count of abduction in addition to a misdemeanor charge of assault on a family or household member.

Ward is scheduled to appear before the Richmond Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court on November 10, 2026.

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This unusual yet serious incident demonstrates that no sporting event or personal leisure activity justifies unlawful restraint or domestic violence.

As Terry Ward prepares to face felony abduction charges in court, the story serves as a cautionary tale regarding domestic relations and legal boundaries.