Trial Ahead For PA Man After Alleged Domestic Violence

A 40-year-old Pennsylvania man was ordered to stand trial after allegedly attacking his wife following a Halloween party at a neighbor’s house. Police said that the domestic violence incident occurred when the husband allegedly became angry at his wife after she confronted him about him paying too much attention to another woman at the party. He was charged with felony aggravated assault, misdemeanor aggravated assault, misdemeanor simple assault, reckless endangerment and summary harassment.

The wife said that once she and her husband arrived home, he allegedly jumped on top of her, hit her in the face repeatedly and tore off her shirt. She also alleged that he held down her arms and forced a pillow against her face. The attack became worse the more she tried to extricate herself, the woman told police. After she attempted to get away, the criminal complaint alleged that her husband became even angrier and punched her repeatedly in the face. She claimed that her husband told her no one would believe that he attacked her and that his connections with the police would take care of it if she reported the alleged assault.

Apparently, police did believe an attack took place since they reported that they observed fresh bruises over the woman’s eyes, lips and the rest of her face when she came to the police station the next morning. Her husband was taken into custody, and after an arraignment, bail was set at $5,000.

In cases of domestic violence, courts can enter a protection from abuse order and police can enforce it. Victims of emotional abuse, online stalking or other emotional stress may also seek relief from the justice system and law enforcement personnel. A temporary restraining order can also be issued to help protect the safety of children. An attorney that specializes in family law may be able to help a victim of domestic violence learn about the options that are available to them.

Source: The Times Herald, “Skippack man headed to county court in domestic assault case“, Michael Goldberg, December 24, 2013