U of M professor charged with domestic assault

An associate professor at the University of Memphis has been arrested after he allegedly assaulted his wife and his son, according to an affidavit.

Cedar Nordbye, 46, has been charged with domestic assault. He has been released on a $500 bond. Nordbye is listed on the U of M’s website as an associate professor in art.

According to an affidavit, the incident happened just before 10:30 a.m. Feb. 12 at a home in the 3300 block of Woodhaven in the Raleigh area. Nordbye’s wife told police she and her husband were arguing. She said that as she turned to walk away, he grabbed her and pushed her into a wooden cabinet. She hit her head and had her glasses knocked off, the affidavit said. Their son heard the commotion and came out of his room, police said, leading Nordbye to push him in the chest. Officers noted that the wife had a bruise and scratch while the son had no injuries.

This appears to be Nordbye’s first arrest in Shelby County.

When asked how the arrest affects his employment, U of M spokesman Jamel Major said in a statement that the school would not comment.

“The University of Memphis does not comment on personnel issues. However, we will fully cooperate to ensure that all matters are thoroughly investigated. University faculty and staff are expected to abide by all local, state and federal laws, as well as university policies and procedures. The U of M holds its employees to the highest standards both on and off campus, and the safety our students and the university community is a priority.”