Jackson County legislator Manuel “Manny” Abarca IV was arrested on domestic battery charges in Johnson County Wednesday afternoon, according to court records.
Abarca’s wife Alexis Garcia told The Star in a text message that their 2-year-old son Manuel Abarca V, known as Luca, was returned safely to her care on Wednesday afternoon as well.
She hadn’t seen the toddler since last Wednesday and had reported him and Abarca as missing on Sunday.
“My son is now safe and home with me,” she said.
Prosecutors filed the domestic violence charge in Johnson County District Court around 6 a.m. Wednesday, according to court records. Charging documents indicate that Abarca had a physical altercation with Garcia on Thursday, May 29.
“Manuel Ray Abarca IV did then and there unlawfully and knowingly c