By Alliance Police Department
ALLIANCE, Neb. — At approximately 12:37 a.m. on Sept. 20, 2025, Lieutenant Tim Peterson responded to a 9-1-1 open-line call at a residence on Yellowstone Avenue. The dispatcher reported hearing a commotion and a male voice threatening to kill someone in the background.
Upon arrival, Lieutenant Peterson heard a physical disturbance and the suspect yelling, “I’m gonna kill you.” Upon entering the residence, he encountered the suspect, identified as Joshua J. Dunovsky, a 27-year-old white male (DOB: 07/22/1998), in the hallway. Dunovsky immediately adopted an aggressive fighting stance and resisted attempts to place him into custody. Despite repeated verbal commands, the suspect refused to comply and actively resisted arrest. A physical altercation ensued, during which Lieutenant Peterson called for backup. During the struggle, the suspect managed to free one hand and attempted to strangle Lieutenant Peterson.
Backup officers from the Alliance Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, and the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist. Upon their arrival, Lieutenant Peterson was still physically engaged with the suspect outside the residence. The suspect was eventually subdued and handcuffed, though he continued to resist arrest even after being restrained.
A subsequent investigation revealed that prior to law enforcement’s arrival, the suspect had assaulted two family members during a domestic dispute. One victim sustained head injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The second victim declined medical transport.
Joshua J. Dunovsky was taken into custody and is currently being held at the Box Butte County Jail on the following charges:
-Two counts of 3rd Degree Assault
-Three counts of Strangulation
-Elder Abuse
-Assault on a Peace Officer
-Terroristic Threats
-Resisting Arrest
-Disturbing the Peace
Chief David Leavitt extends his sincere gratitude to the Nebraska State Patrol and the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office for their swift and professional assistance during this dangerous situation. Lieutenant Peterson did not sustain any serious injuries during this incident.