A jury convicted a West Chester man this afternoon for his role in a burglary and assault in East Bradford last April.
William H. Strode, Jr., 26, was found guilty of Criminal Attempt to Commit Rape, Aggravated Assault, and Burglary by a jury of six men and six women after two hours of deliberation. Judge Thomas Gavin issued jury instructions after both attorneys gave closing arguements this morning. The jury returned its verdict at 14:00. Assistant District Attorney Thomas Ost-Prisco had argued for Strode's bail to be revoked, citing the defendant's threats that he made in Judge Anthony Sarcione's court which were directed at the judge, police, victim, and his previous attorney. (That particular outburst was what caused the case to be reassigned in the first place.) However, Judge Gavin ruled that since the $50,000 cash bail had not been posted, it was, for all intents and purposes, moot.
Sentencing is scheduled for sometime in mid-October; after he had initially pled guilty in January, Strode had completed an evaluation through the Sex Offenders Assessment Board. Despite withdrawing his initial guilty plea, both sides agreed it was unneccesary to "reinvent the wheel" and order a new evaluation.
Showing posts with label East Bradford. Show all posts
Showing posts with label East Bradford. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
COMMONWEALTH VS STRODE
The trial of Commonwealth vs. William Horac Strode, Jr. began today in Courtroom #5. Strode faces one count each of Criminal Attempt/Rape, Aggravated Assault, and Burglary following an April 23, 2006 incident at a residence in East Bradford (CP-15-CR-0002002-2006).
In testimony during the afternoon, the alleged victim testified that she and the defendant attended a fire company function at the Italian Social Club in West Chester. When they returned to her house, he dropped her off and left the property. He then drove to a nearby property, waited several minutes while the victim went inside to do some household chores before going to bed.
Shortly after midnight, the victim heard a bucket in the basement fall to the ground, then the power going out on her property. She hadn't thought anything of either incident at the time since she suspected the cats were down in the basement and that it was raining that night, hence the possible power failure.
A few minutes later, Strode allegedly entered the victim's bedroom, got on top of her and attempted to choke her by covering one hand around her mouth and his other hand around her neck. After pleading with Strode, he eventually loosened his grip and released her. At that point, she fled from the bedroom. Shortly thereafter, Strode allegedly admitted to her that he had intended to choke her out, have sex with her, and that if he "had gone too far, he would've performed CPR."
As they were on the porch after the incident, Ofc. Carl McIntyre had pulled up investigating an unrelated shots fired incident in the area. After briefly inquiring if the defendant or victim had heard any gun shots, one of them indicated it was fireworks and Ofc. McIntyre proceeded on.
About an hour and a half later, after the inital contact with Ofc. McIntyre, the alleged victim called her daughter and her son to tell them what happened. The victim's son pressed her to call police. At that point, Ofc. McIntyre returned to the location to get the victim's statement. The victim relayed the events to Ofc. McIntyre, then went to her son's house for the night.
That evening, at around 19:30, Ofc. McIntyre made contact with Strode, who voluntarily came to WCPD headquarters for an interview. Strode then voluntarily provided a written statement to Ofc. McIntyre about the events the previous night. Ofc. McIntyre testified that he chose not to arrest Strode until he voluntarily came in for an interview, though he did advise the day shift about the incident.
The Commonwealth rested it's case this afternoon. Tomorrow morning, the defense is expected to present it's case (if any) and closing arguements are expected to take place. The jury should get the case by late tomorrow morning.
In testimony during the afternoon, the alleged victim testified that she and the defendant attended a fire company function at the Italian Social Club in West Chester. When they returned to her house, he dropped her off and left the property. He then drove to a nearby property, waited several minutes while the victim went inside to do some household chores before going to bed.
Shortly after midnight, the victim heard a bucket in the basement fall to the ground, then the power going out on her property. She hadn't thought anything of either incident at the time since she suspected the cats were down in the basement and that it was raining that night, hence the possible power failure.
A few minutes later, Strode allegedly entered the victim's bedroom, got on top of her and attempted to choke her by covering one hand around her mouth and his other hand around her neck. After pleading with Strode, he eventually loosened his grip and released her. At that point, she fled from the bedroom. Shortly thereafter, Strode allegedly admitted to her that he had intended to choke her out, have sex with her, and that if he "had gone too far, he would've performed CPR."
As they were on the porch after the incident, Ofc. Carl McIntyre had pulled up investigating an unrelated shots fired incident in the area. After briefly inquiring if the defendant or victim had heard any gun shots, one of them indicated it was fireworks and Ofc. McIntyre proceeded on.
About an hour and a half later, after the inital contact with Ofc. McIntyre, the alleged victim called her daughter and her son to tell them what happened. The victim's son pressed her to call police. At that point, Ofc. McIntyre returned to the location to get the victim's statement. The victim relayed the events to Ofc. McIntyre, then went to her son's house for the night.
That evening, at around 19:30, Ofc. McIntyre made contact with Strode, who voluntarily came to WCPD headquarters for an interview. Strode then voluntarily provided a written statement to Ofc. McIntyre about the events the previous night. Ofc. McIntyre testified that he chose not to arrest Strode until he voluntarily came in for an interview, though he did advise the day shift about the incident.
The Commonwealth rested it's case this afternoon. Tomorrow morning, the defense is expected to present it's case (if any) and closing arguements are expected to take place. The jury should get the case by late tomorrow morning.
COURTROOM #5 RECAP - 9/14/07
The first half of Judge Thomas Gavin's four week term (which is really split into two separate two week terms) ended on Friday with a couple of West Chester cases resolved:
Kevin Christian Devirgilis, 33, of West Chester, pled guilty to DUI/3rd Offense/2nd Tier and Endangering the Welfare of a Child after a road rage incident in West Goshen. On March 3 at 14:36, Ofc. Cheryl Taylor responded to the report of a property damage accident at Paoli Pike and Turner Lane. The victim was about to turn left onto Paoli Pike from Turner when Devirgilis' car struck his car, causing some scratches to the passenger side. Devirgils then spit into the victim's vehicle before driving off. Devirgilis' 4-year-old daughter was in the car at the time. He later pulled into the Wawa on Gay Street. Upon arrival, Ofc. Taylor observed signs of intoxication and that Devirgilis was having a tough time maintaining his balance. He was transported to CCH for a blood draw; the blood test resulted in a .12 BAC.
Judge Gavin sentenced Devirgilis to 90 days to 23 months at Chester County Prison, one year consecutive probation, fined $1,600 ($1,500 on the DUI and $100 for the Recklessly Endangering Another Person, ordered to pay the $70 Lima Lab fee, perform 100 hours of community service, and will suffer an 18 month driver's license suspension (CP-15-CR-0002371-2007)...
Vincent Daniel Friedel, 45, of Malvern, was charged with Simple Assault and Harassment following a New Year's Eve domestic fight. At 10:45, Ofc. Aaron Davis was dispatched to a residence on the 900 block of Cloud Drive in East Bradford for the report of a domestic dispute reported physical. The victim (the defendant's wife) stated that Friedel threw a plastic baby bottle at her, striking her in the face during what she described as a verbal dispute. As a result of a plea bargain, Friedel pled guilty to a summary charge of harassment and sentenced to 90 days probation and ordered not to have contact with the victim (CP-15-CR-0000857-2007)...
Most of the other West Chester related cases in front of Judge Gavin were passed to next week or continued to the next term. The second half of Judge Gavin's criminal term will start next Monday.
Also, today marked the start of Judge Anthony Sarcione's "Rotation II" criminal list, although a lot of pleas slated to be heard by him were moved to other judges (a few were moved to Judge Nagle's court) due to the ongoing Michael Sheller murder trial (and no, I haven't been covering it because Jen Miller is doing a good job covering it for the DLN, and for me to cover the same trial would be a little redundant). That trial is expected to go to the jury either tomorrow or Wednesday.
Tomorrow is Judge Bruno's Criminal Day at 15-1-01; also, because of a scheduling quirk, Judge Bruno is also the on-call District Judge tonight (filling the slot that would normally be assigned to Goshen District Court; however since Senior District Judge Susann Welsh is presiding at Goshen, on-call days assigned to Goshen are re-assigned to other judges; Coatesville District Judge Robert Davis filled in on Saturday and Sunday). I might miss the first part of the first quarter of tonight's Iggles game to see if anything interesting happens in the first hour of on-call at Judge Bruno's court, though I will definiately be there for Criminal Day tomorrow, even if the Iggles somehow find a way to screw tonight up and lose to the Prince George's County (Md.) Indigenous Persons...
Kevin Christian Devirgilis, 33, of West Chester, pled guilty to DUI/3rd Offense/2nd Tier and Endangering the Welfare of a Child after a road rage incident in West Goshen. On March 3 at 14:36, Ofc. Cheryl Taylor responded to the report of a property damage accident at Paoli Pike and Turner Lane. The victim was about to turn left onto Paoli Pike from Turner when Devirgilis' car struck his car, causing some scratches to the passenger side. Devirgils then spit into the victim's vehicle before driving off. Devirgilis' 4-year-old daughter was in the car at the time. He later pulled into the Wawa on Gay Street. Upon arrival, Ofc. Taylor observed signs of intoxication and that Devirgilis was having a tough time maintaining his balance. He was transported to CCH for a blood draw; the blood test resulted in a .12 BAC.
Judge Gavin sentenced Devirgilis to 90 days to 23 months at Chester County Prison, one year consecutive probation, fined $1,600 ($1,500 on the DUI and $100 for the Recklessly Endangering Another Person, ordered to pay the $70 Lima Lab fee, perform 100 hours of community service, and will suffer an 18 month driver's license suspension (CP-15-CR-0002371-2007)...
Vincent Daniel Friedel, 45, of Malvern, was charged with Simple Assault and Harassment following a New Year's Eve domestic fight. At 10:45, Ofc. Aaron Davis was dispatched to a residence on the 900 block of Cloud Drive in East Bradford for the report of a domestic dispute reported physical. The victim (the defendant's wife) stated that Friedel threw a plastic baby bottle at her, striking her in the face during what she described as a verbal dispute. As a result of a plea bargain, Friedel pled guilty to a summary charge of harassment and sentenced to 90 days probation and ordered not to have contact with the victim (CP-15-CR-0000857-2007)...
Most of the other West Chester related cases in front of Judge Gavin were passed to next week or continued to the next term. The second half of Judge Gavin's criminal term will start next Monday.
Also, today marked the start of Judge Anthony Sarcione's "Rotation II" criminal list, although a lot of pleas slated to be heard by him were moved to other judges (a few were moved to Judge Nagle's court) due to the ongoing Michael Sheller murder trial (and no, I haven't been covering it because Jen Miller is doing a good job covering it for the DLN, and for me to cover the same trial would be a little redundant). That trial is expected to go to the jury either tomorrow or Wednesday.
Tomorrow is Judge Bruno's Criminal Day at 15-1-01; also, because of a scheduling quirk, Judge Bruno is also the on-call District Judge tonight (filling the slot that would normally be assigned to Goshen District Court; however since Senior District Judge Susann Welsh is presiding at Goshen, on-call days assigned to Goshen are re-assigned to other judges; Coatesville District Judge Robert Davis filled in on Saturday and Sunday). I might miss the first part of the first quarter of tonight's Iggles game to see if anything interesting happens in the first hour of on-call at Judge Bruno's court, though I will definiately be there for Criminal Day tomorrow, even if the Iggles somehow find a way to screw tonight up and lose to the Prince George's County (Md.) Indigenous Persons...
Sunday, September 16, 2007
RAPE TRIAL TO START TOMORROW
A man accused of raping a woman in East Bradford is scheduled to go to trial tomorrow in front of Judge Thomas Gavin. William Horac Strode, Jr., 26, of West Chester, is charged with Rape, Criminal Attempt/Rape, Burglary, Simple Assault, Recklessly Endgangering Another Person, two counts of Criminal Trespassing, and Aggravated Assault after an April 23, 2006 incident in the township according to a complaint filed by Ofc. Carl McIntyre of WCPD.
Strode originally pled guilty on January 24 to one count of Criminal Attempt/Rape and Burglary in front of Judge Anthony Sarcione. Last month, however, Strode fired his attorney and retained new counsel, Scott Godshall. At the hearing in August, the case was reassigned to Judge Gavin, who granted Strode's motion to withdraw his guilty plea and set his bail at $50,000.
Last week, a hearing was held in which the Commonwealth attempted to admit prior bad acts comitted by the defendant to show a pattern of conduct. However, after arguement by defense counsel, Judge Gavin deferred a decision on the motion until the next day, although he indicated in open court that he was inclined to deny the motion.
Jury selection begins tomorrow in Courtroom #5; Assistant DA Thomas Ost-Prisco is prosecuting the case on behalf of the Commonwealth (CP-15-CR-0002002-2006).
Strode originally pled guilty on January 24 to one count of Criminal Attempt/Rape and Burglary in front of Judge Anthony Sarcione. Last month, however, Strode fired his attorney and retained new counsel, Scott Godshall. At the hearing in August, the case was reassigned to Judge Gavin, who granted Strode's motion to withdraw his guilty plea and set his bail at $50,000.
Last week, a hearing was held in which the Commonwealth attempted to admit prior bad acts comitted by the defendant to show a pattern of conduct. However, after arguement by defense counsel, Judge Gavin deferred a decision on the motion until the next day, although he indicated in open court that he was inclined to deny the motion.
Jury selection begins tomorrow in Courtroom #5; Assistant DA Thomas Ost-Prisco is prosecuting the case on behalf of the Commonwealth (CP-15-CR-0002002-2006).
Friday, September 7, 2007
BANK ROBBERY IN TOWNSHIP
At around 08:05 this morning, WCPD units responded to the PNC Bank at Brookworth Plaza in East Bradford for the report of a bank robbery. Upon further investigation, it was determined that two black males robbed the bank at point of shotgun and took an unknown amount of cash. The actors reportedly fled from the scene by car, but no information about the getaway vehicle was available at this time. This is the second bank robbery at the Brookworth Plaza in the past several months; the Citizen's Bank branch at the Acme Markets store was robbed earlier this summer.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
NASTY WRECK IN EAST BRADFORD
At around 02:30 this morning, WCPD was dispatched to the report of an ATV vs. tree accident on the 800 block of Brandywine Road in the north end of East Bradford Township. Upon arrival, Ofc. Christopher Daly reported a male who was unconcsious, unhelmeted, and possibly intoxicated after his ATV struck a tree. The victim also reportedly suffered a femur fracture in the accident. The male in his 30's was flown to Crozer-Chester Trauma Center by SkyCare #1 from the landing zone set up by Engine 39-3 at Harmony Hill and Skelp Level Roads. Assisting WCPD were Minquas Fire Company EMS and West Bradford Fire Company.
Friday, July 27, 2007
FIGHTING UNDER A FULL MOON
The full moon seemed to bring out the inner idiot in a lot of people last night...
At around 02:30, WCPD units were dispatched to the 50 block of South High Street for the report of a fight south of Barnaby's. One actor fled the scene and was later taken into custody after a positive ID on the 50 block of East Barnard Street. The victim reportedly was struck in the head however EMS was recalled from the scene.
Earlier in the night, a male was arrested for Criminal Mischief after his involvement in a fight outside Barnaby's in which the passenger door of one of the employees was damaged.
This capped off an active night in both the borough and township...
At around 22:30, WCPD units responded to the report of a single car vs utility pole accident on the 1200 block of Copeland School Road in East Bradford; the address was later updated further up the block, placing it in West Whiteland. East Bradford Township Fire Marshal Eric Ruggieri was the first to arrive on scene, confirming the initial report from Fire Board. The patient was flown to Reading Hospital trauma center by Sky Flight Care. Assisting on the accident scene were the West Bradford Fire Company, West Whiteland Fire Company, GFAC, and Medic 91 (20070727M0082).
Minutes later, back in the borough, WCPD units responded to assist an officer on a ped stop at Miner and Matlack Streets. In When the dust settled, one actor was taken into custody. Ray Shabazz, 28, of West Chester, was charged with Resisting Arrest and two counts of Disorderly Conduct and is presently being held at CCP on $5,000 bail; his preliminary hearing is scheduled for Friday in front of Judge Knapp (15-1-04, CR-0000243-07).
Meanwhile, on the 300 block of West Chestnut Street, Ofc. Christopher Craig and Cpl. Josh Lee apprehended a wanted suspect out of Philadelphia. Jamil Peterson, 24, of Bristol, Bucks County, had an active bench warrant issued by Philadelphia Police. Peterson has an extensive criminal history in Philadelphia and Bucks County:
At around 02:30, WCPD units were dispatched to the 50 block of South High Street for the report of a fight south of Barnaby's. One actor fled the scene and was later taken into custody after a positive ID on the 50 block of East Barnard Street. The victim reportedly was struck in the head however EMS was recalled from the scene.
Earlier in the night, a male was arrested for Criminal Mischief after his involvement in a fight outside Barnaby's in which the passenger door of one of the employees was damaged.
This capped off an active night in both the borough and township...
At around 22:30, WCPD units responded to the report of a single car vs utility pole accident on the 1200 block of Copeland School Road in East Bradford; the address was later updated further up the block, placing it in West Whiteland. East Bradford Township Fire Marshal Eric Ruggieri was the first to arrive on scene, confirming the initial report from Fire Board. The patient was flown to Reading Hospital trauma center by Sky Flight Care. Assisting on the accident scene were the West Bradford Fire Company, West Whiteland Fire Company, GFAC, and Medic 91 (20070727M0082).
Minutes later, back in the borough, WCPD units responded to assist an officer on a ped stop at Miner and Matlack Streets. In When the dust settled, one actor was taken into custody. Ray Shabazz, 28, of West Chester, was charged with Resisting Arrest and two counts of Disorderly Conduct and is presently being held at CCP on $5,000 bail; his preliminary hearing is scheduled for Friday in front of Judge Knapp (15-1-04, CR-0000243-07).
Meanwhile, on the 300 block of West Chestnut Street, Ofc. Christopher Craig and Cpl. Josh Lee apprehended a wanted suspect out of Philadelphia. Jamil Peterson, 24, of Bristol, Bucks County, had an active bench warrant issued by Philadelphia Police. Peterson has an extensive criminal history in Philadelphia and Bucks County:
- On February 26, 2002, Peterson was charged by Philadelphia Police with Recieving Stolen Property and Unathorized Use of a Motor Vehicle following an incident in North Philadelphia; the charges were withdrawn on January 2 (MC-51-CR-0234191-2002).
- On March 8, 2002, Peterson was arrested by Bristol Borough Police with Possession of a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Fleeing/Attempting to Elude a Police Officer, four counts of Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Arrest, and three traffic offenses; on July 16, 2002, he was sentenced to time served (4 days) to 6 months in the Bucks County Correctional Facility (CP-09-CR-0002622-2002).
- On July 6, 2002, while out on bail for the Bristol Borough charges, Peterson was arrested in the Lower Northeast by PPD 25th District officers for Possession of a Controlled Substance and was sentenced to an unknown amount of jail time a few days later (MC-51-CR-0707361-2002).
- On December 17, 2002, Peterson was arrested in Bristol Township on charges of Aggravated Assault, Simple Assault, Resisting Arrest, and Harassment; he pled guilty on April 21, 2003 to the lesser offenses, with the Aggravated Assault charges Nolle Prossed (withdrawn) and sentenced to 6-to-23 months at BCCF (CP-09-CR-0000857-2003).
- On April 25, 2005, Peterson was arrested by Falls Township police on charges of Possession of a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver, Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, False Identification to a Law Enforcement Officer, Unsworn Falsification to Authorities, and Disorderly Conduct; he pled guilty to the lesser offenses, with the PWID charge Nolle Prossed, and was sentenced to time served at BCCF (CP-09-CR-0003169-2005).
- On June 28, 2006, Peterson was arrested by Bristol Township police on charges of Recieving Stolen Property and Unathorized Use of a Motor Vehicle; at trial on September 15, 2006, Peterson was found not guilty of Recieving Stolen Property and convicted of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle and was sentenced by Bucks County Common Pleas Court Judge (and former media hog/District Attorney) Alan M. Rubenstein to 5-to-23 months in prision (CP-09-CR-0004702-2006).
- While awaiting trial on that case, Peterson was charged by Bristol Township police with Possession of a Controlled Substance With Intent to Deliver relating to a November 15, 2005 incident; on November 28, 2006, he pled guilty to that offense and was sentenced to 6-to-23 months at BCCF, was credited for time served on the other offenses and granted parole (CP-09-CR-0006543-2006).
- On April 7, Peterson was arrested by PPD 8th District officers on charges of Burglary, Criminal Trespassing, Theft by Unlawful Taking, Recieving Stolen Property, and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. He had been scheduled for a preliminary hearing on April 13, however failed to appear and a warrant was issued for his arrest (MC-51-CR-0015861-2007). This, presumably, was the warrant on which he was picked up on by Cpl. Lee.
- There was also a bench warrant issued for Peterson's arrest by Bucks County as an "absconding parolee" on May 30. It's unclear as to which Bucks County case the warrant was in regards to.
One can't help but wonder if Diane Gibbons, a prosecutor who seems to crave media attention almost as much as her predecessor Rubenstein and as much as Montgomery County DA/egomanic Bruce L. Castor has turned over the reins of her office to Monte Hall (host of the old TV show "Let's Make A Deal"). Bear in mind that Gibbons was the same prosecutor who prosecuted a 10-year-old on felony charges after an alleged burglary in Upper Bucks of the home of one of her subordinate prosecutors.
Now it's one thing for someone to slip through the cracks in Philadelphia, but someone with that many arrests in that short amount of time should've caught Gibbons' attention. Maybe it slipped past her because she's too busy running for Common Pleas Court or maybe her "tough on crime" stance is nothing but a lie. Way to look out for your consituents, Ms. Gibbons. Now, maybe you can get your prosecutors to push for Peterson to take a trip to a state correctional institute instead of continuing to slap this scumbag on the wrist...
With all that out of the way, I will have a recap of the Jackson/Molina preliminary hearings. I just didn't have time to do it last night...
Monday, July 9, 2007
BUSY NIGHT FOR WCPD
The homicide on South Adams was the big incident that WCPD handled last night and into this morning, but it wasn't the only noteworthy event.
While the bulk of the WCPD units were on South Adams, Chester County 9-1-1 recieved a report of an MVA with injuries on PA 162 near Creek Road in East Bradford. P/O Jason Malicki responded to the scene, along with GFAC and West Bradford Fire Company. The first units on scene reported one vehicle into a guardrail near the bridge over the Brandywine Creek and two patients reported with injuries - one with bleeding from the head and one with bleeding from the hand or wrist. GFAC treated at least one of the victims. P/O Malicki then transported the driver from the MVA to CCH as a possible DUI suspect...
Earlier in the evening, a dispute between two women on the 300 block of East Barnard Street led to police being sent to that area twice during the early evening hours. The first call occured at around 20:30 involving two females which was settled by police upon arrival after both parties were warned not to have contact with each other. The advice, needless to say, was not heeded...
About an hour or so later, officers returned to the area for the same two individuals, and at that point, one of the actors fled police by running into her house on Barnard. A few minutes later, Christine Elizabeth Merritt, 36, who is fairly well known to police, was taken into custody and charged with two counts of Disorderly Conduct. She was arraigned by Judge Bruno last night and committed to Chester County Prison in lieu of $1,500 bail; Merritt's preliminary hearing is scheduled for Friday in front of Judge Knapp (15-1-04; CR-0000218-07).
Well, it's off to Common Pleas Court. Depending on how the cases play out this morning, it will either be a very interesting day or a rather slow day, as Judges Gavin, Riley, and Sarcione all have criminal terms in progress this week. Of course, if anything newsworthy pops up from these trials or cases, it will be posted (hopefully today, but it depends on whether or not I can stay awake). At least there's air conditioning in the courthouse...
While the bulk of the WCPD units were on South Adams, Chester County 9-1-1 recieved a report of an MVA with injuries on PA 162 near Creek Road in East Bradford. P/O Jason Malicki responded to the scene, along with GFAC and West Bradford Fire Company. The first units on scene reported one vehicle into a guardrail near the bridge over the Brandywine Creek and two patients reported with injuries - one with bleeding from the head and one with bleeding from the hand or wrist. GFAC treated at least one of the victims. P/O Malicki then transported the driver from the MVA to CCH as a possible DUI suspect...
Earlier in the evening, a dispute between two women on the 300 block of East Barnard Street led to police being sent to that area twice during the early evening hours. The first call occured at around 20:30 involving two females which was settled by police upon arrival after both parties were warned not to have contact with each other. The advice, needless to say, was not heeded...
About an hour or so later, officers returned to the area for the same two individuals, and at that point, one of the actors fled police by running into her house on Barnard. A few minutes later, Christine Elizabeth Merritt, 36, who is fairly well known to police, was taken into custody and charged with two counts of Disorderly Conduct. She was arraigned by Judge Bruno last night and committed to Chester County Prison in lieu of $1,500 bail; Merritt's preliminary hearing is scheduled for Friday in front of Judge Knapp (15-1-04; CR-0000218-07).
Well, it's off to Common Pleas Court. Depending on how the cases play out this morning, it will either be a very interesting day or a rather slow day, as Judges Gavin, Riley, and Sarcione all have criminal terms in progress this week. Of course, if anything newsworthy pops up from these trials or cases, it will be posted (hopefully today, but it depends on whether or not I can stay awake). At least there's air conditioning in the courthouse...
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
BROOKWORTH STRUCK AGAIN
For the third time in the past several weeks, a theft took place at the Brookworth Plaza shopping center on Downingtown Pike in East Bradford. At around 03:50 this morning, units were dispatched to an alarm at one of the stores at the plaza. Upon arrival, officers searched the area and discovered a burglary a dry cleaner and a nail salon. This is the second time that this portion of the plaza was struck overnight. The chinese restaurant and dry cleaners were also hit by burglars two months ago on a Sunday night - ironically enough while Squad 2 was working, as was the case last night. This is on top of the bank robbery at the Citizens Bank branch two weeks ago, where the search for the actor was interrupted by a gas leak at near the PNC Bank. And yes, Squad 2 was working that assignment as well...
In the end, it's probably nothing more than a coincidence, but it is very strange to say the very least...
In the end, it's probably nothing more than a coincidence, but it is very strange to say the very least...
Monday, June 11, 2007
DOWNINGTOWN CRIMINAL DAY - 6/11/07
In one of the quirks of the county's judicial system, WCPD files court cases in three different district courts - 15-1-01 (West End), 15-1-04 (East End), and 15-2-06 (Downingtown). Today, 15-2-06 held it's weekly criminal day, with 50 cases listed on the docket. The majority of the cases were disposed of quickly through waivers or continuances. There were 5 cases filed by WCPD that were scheduled for hearings (along with three that were continued to later dates), however, two of the defendants in those cases waived hearings directly to Common Pleas Court, two other cases were continued, and 5th defendant entered an agreement with disposition pending compliance with court ordered conditions. A total of 8 cases, mostly from Downingtown, with four from West Bradford (3 of which involved the same defendant), were heard on Monday.
Phillip G. Mason, 38, of Downingtown, was held for trial on Possession with Intent to Deliver, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, Theft by Unlawful Taking, and Recieving Stolen Property following three separate drug investigations in Downingtown and Uwchlan. During his hearing, Det. Pam Fentner of the Downingtown Police Department, working as a coordinator for the Chester County Municipal Drug Task Force, testified that MDTF officers arranged three separate controlled purchases with a confidential informant. Det. Fentner alleged that the defendant sold $150.00 of crack cocaine to the CI on March 23 at the McDonalds in Downingtown and $300.00 worth of cocaine at a car wash on Route 113 in Uwchlan on March 27. Two days later, at the Downingtown McDonalds, Det. Fentner alleged that Mason stole $300.00 from the CI in what was supposed to have been a controlled drug sale. In that incident, the CI met the Mason, who allegedly took the money and did not return to the McDonald's after 90 minutes. The defendant was held on all counts and remains at Chester County Prison in lieu of 10 percent of $5,000 bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000223-07)
Talmadge Dallas Brown, 35, of Downingtown, had two separate drug related cases in front of Judge Arnold on Monday. In the first hearing, an agent with the United States Drug Enforcement Agency testified that on two separate occasions, August 22, 2006 and September 6, 2006 - the defendant allegedly sold $300.00 worth of cocaine to a confidential informant in the area of Bradford and Viaduct Avenues in the Johnsontown section of Downingtown (near the SEPTA/Amtrak rail station). The two sales netted 26.3 grams and 27.2 grams of cocaine base as tested by the DEA. (15-2-06; CR-0000612-06)
In the second case, Ofc. Scott Neuhaus of the Downingtown Police Department testified that on January 5 at around 16:45, he observed Brown on the porch of his property on the 100 block of Bradford Avenue. Ofc. Neuhaus stated that he knew Brown had an active warrant for his arrest. In a search incident to an arrest, Brown allegedly was in possession of a small amount of marijuana that was tested positive by the PSP labs at Lima. (15-2-06; CR-0000003-07) The defendant was held on all counts in both cases and remains free on $2,500 bail.
Richard Lincoln Plank, 49, was arrested last week following a domestic dispute in East Caln Twp. During his hearing, Ofc. Scott Marrone of the Downingtown Police Department testified that on June 5 at around 21:15, he responded to a domestic between Plank and his mother on the 100 block of Winding Way. During the interview, Ofc. Marrone detected a strong odor of alcohol from the defendant and that the telephone was smashed to pieces. Plank was asked several times to unclench his fists and was subdued with minimal force. Once his hands were unclenched, Ofc. Marrone alleged that Plank had a 3 inch red metal pipe consistent with items used for smoking marijuana. He also testified that he found a small amount of marijuana in the bowl of the pipe. Plank was held for trial on Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1 count of Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, Harassment, and Criminal Mischief; charges of Resisting Arrest and a 2nd count of Possession of Drug Paraphanalia were dismissed. Plank remains at Chester County Prison in lieu of 10 percent of $10,000 bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000240-07)
Finally, from West Bradford comes a tale of a marraige that, to be pretty generous, is all but on the rocks.
Anthony Richard Micola, 44, had three separate preliminary hearings and a summary trial on Monday. In the first hearing, Miccolla and his wife Loretta Micola, 45, were charged with Recieving Stolen Property and Conspiracy following the theft of a motorcycle in West Chester last year. The alleged victim testified that on August 31, 2006, he reported his motorcycle was stolen from behind the Eagles Club on the 100 block of East Prescott Alley in West Chester and that he neither knew either of the defendants or gave permission for them to be in possession of the bike. In that same hearing, Trp. David Valentin of PSP/Embreeville testified that he was dispatched to the report of a domestic in progress on the 1400 block of Manorwood Dr in West Bradford on February 27 ar around 20:00. He was informed by Mrs. Micola that there was a motorcycle in the shed that was later determined to have been stripped of its handlebars, exhaust, seats, and gas tank.
At that point, Tpr. Brandon Corby arrived on scene to relieve Tpr. Valentin. The motorcycle was then towed to Embreeville barracks for processing and Mrs. Micola was taken to the barracks for further questioning. She was then interviewed further by Tpr. Corby. During the interview, Mrs. Micola stepped outside for a cigarette and allegedly attempted to leave the barracks on foot. She was then placed under arrest. In an search incident to arrest, a small amount of suspected methamphetamine was found in her front pants pocket. The substance later tested positive for .34 grams meth by the PSP Lima Lab. Both defendants were held for trial on all charges; Mrs. Micola is free on $5,000 unsecured bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000085-07 & CR-0000086-07)
As for Mr. Micola, his day was just beginning. In the second hearing, Mr. Micola was charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphanalia. In that hearing, Tpr. Jose Torres of the Embreeville Vice unit testified that he interviewed Mrs. Micola during the course of Tpr. Corby's interview relating to the domestic incident early in the day. Based on the results of his interview, Tpr. Torres and other troopers went back to the Micola residence and executed a search warrant on the property. A field test gave positive results for both controlled substances, a claim suppored by further testing at Lima, which yielded 21 grams of crystal meth and 4.8 grams of marijuana.
Mr. Micola was present on the property during the search where troopers found a black bandana containing several items including 4 bags of suspected crystal meth, marijuana, and a digital scale. Troopers also recovered $2,200 in cash as part of the search. In a statement, the defendant claimed the drugs were his and that he gave those drugs to feed his wife's habit. Tpr. Torres testified that the recovery of the digital scale gave him probable cause to believe that the drugs were for more than personal use. Mr. Micola was held on all charges in that case. (15-2-06; CR-0000088-07)
In a third preliminary hearing, Mr. Micola was charged with Terroristic Threats, Simple Assault, and Harassment relating to a separate domestic assault on March 30, in which the defendant allegedly struck his wife in the back and repeatedly threatented to kill her, in a complaint filed by Trp. Norman Strauss. The victim was treated on scene by EMS after suffering rib and back injuries. Mr. Micola was held on all charges in this case as well. (15-2-06; CR-0000131-07)
Mr. Micola was acquitted on summary harassment charges in a separate incident that occured at around 00:45 on February 27. (15-2-06; NT-0000175-07)
And thus ends a long session in Downingtown District Court. The fact that nearly 50 cases were heard in a relatively short period (under 4 hours, but it could've been less had it not been for the eight hearings, which cumulatively took nearly an hour and a half to complete.
Phillip G. Mason, 38, of Downingtown, was held for trial on Possession with Intent to Deliver, Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, Theft by Unlawful Taking, and Recieving Stolen Property following three separate drug investigations in Downingtown and Uwchlan. During his hearing, Det. Pam Fentner of the Downingtown Police Department, working as a coordinator for the Chester County Municipal Drug Task Force, testified that MDTF officers arranged three separate controlled purchases with a confidential informant. Det. Fentner alleged that the defendant sold $150.00 of crack cocaine to the CI on March 23 at the McDonalds in Downingtown and $300.00 worth of cocaine at a car wash on Route 113 in Uwchlan on March 27. Two days later, at the Downingtown McDonalds, Det. Fentner alleged that Mason stole $300.00 from the CI in what was supposed to have been a controlled drug sale. In that incident, the CI met the Mason, who allegedly took the money and did not return to the McDonald's after 90 minutes. The defendant was held on all counts and remains at Chester County Prison in lieu of 10 percent of $5,000 bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000223-07)
Talmadge Dallas Brown, 35, of Downingtown, had two separate drug related cases in front of Judge Arnold on Monday. In the first hearing, an agent with the United States Drug Enforcement Agency testified that on two separate occasions, August 22, 2006 and September 6, 2006 - the defendant allegedly sold $300.00 worth of cocaine to a confidential informant in the area of Bradford and Viaduct Avenues in the Johnsontown section of Downingtown (near the SEPTA/Amtrak rail station). The two sales netted 26.3 grams and 27.2 grams of cocaine base as tested by the DEA. (15-2-06; CR-0000612-06)
In the second case, Ofc. Scott Neuhaus of the Downingtown Police Department testified that on January 5 at around 16:45, he observed Brown on the porch of his property on the 100 block of Bradford Avenue. Ofc. Neuhaus stated that he knew Brown had an active warrant for his arrest. In a search incident to an arrest, Brown allegedly was in possession of a small amount of marijuana that was tested positive by the PSP labs at Lima. (15-2-06; CR-0000003-07) The defendant was held on all counts in both cases and remains free on $2,500 bail.
Richard Lincoln Plank, 49, was arrested last week following a domestic dispute in East Caln Twp. During his hearing, Ofc. Scott Marrone of the Downingtown Police Department testified that on June 5 at around 21:15, he responded to a domestic between Plank and his mother on the 100 block of Winding Way. During the interview, Ofc. Marrone detected a strong odor of alcohol from the defendant and that the telephone was smashed to pieces. Plank was asked several times to unclench his fists and was subdued with minimal force. Once his hands were unclenched, Ofc. Marrone alleged that Plank had a 3 inch red metal pipe consistent with items used for smoking marijuana. He also testified that he found a small amount of marijuana in the bowl of the pipe. Plank was held for trial on Possession of a Controlled Substance, 1 count of Possession of Drug Paraphanalia, Harassment, and Criminal Mischief; charges of Resisting Arrest and a 2nd count of Possession of Drug Paraphanalia were dismissed. Plank remains at Chester County Prison in lieu of 10 percent of $10,000 bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000240-07)
Finally, from West Bradford comes a tale of a marraige that, to be pretty generous, is all but on the rocks.
Anthony Richard Micola, 44, had three separate preliminary hearings and a summary trial on Monday. In the first hearing, Miccolla and his wife Loretta Micola, 45, were charged with Recieving Stolen Property and Conspiracy following the theft of a motorcycle in West Chester last year. The alleged victim testified that on August 31, 2006, he reported his motorcycle was stolen from behind the Eagles Club on the 100 block of East Prescott Alley in West Chester and that he neither knew either of the defendants or gave permission for them to be in possession of the bike. In that same hearing, Trp. David Valentin of PSP/Embreeville testified that he was dispatched to the report of a domestic in progress on the 1400 block of Manorwood Dr in West Bradford on February 27 ar around 20:00. He was informed by Mrs. Micola that there was a motorcycle in the shed that was later determined to have been stripped of its handlebars, exhaust, seats, and gas tank.
At that point, Tpr. Brandon Corby arrived on scene to relieve Tpr. Valentin. The motorcycle was then towed to Embreeville barracks for processing and Mrs. Micola was taken to the barracks for further questioning. She was then interviewed further by Tpr. Corby. During the interview, Mrs. Micola stepped outside for a cigarette and allegedly attempted to leave the barracks on foot. She was then placed under arrest. In an search incident to arrest, a small amount of suspected methamphetamine was found in her front pants pocket. The substance later tested positive for .34 grams meth by the PSP Lima Lab. Both defendants were held for trial on all charges; Mrs. Micola is free on $5,000 unsecured bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000085-07 & CR-0000086-07)
As for Mr. Micola, his day was just beginning. In the second hearing, Mr. Micola was charged with Possession with Intent to Deliver, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphanalia. In that hearing, Tpr. Jose Torres of the Embreeville Vice unit testified that he interviewed Mrs. Micola during the course of Tpr. Corby's interview relating to the domestic incident early in the day. Based on the results of his interview, Tpr. Torres and other troopers went back to the Micola residence and executed a search warrant on the property. A field test gave positive results for both controlled substances, a claim suppored by further testing at Lima, which yielded 21 grams of crystal meth and 4.8 grams of marijuana.
Mr. Micola was present on the property during the search where troopers found a black bandana containing several items including 4 bags of suspected crystal meth, marijuana, and a digital scale. Troopers also recovered $2,200 in cash as part of the search. In a statement, the defendant claimed the drugs were his and that he gave those drugs to feed his wife's habit. Tpr. Torres testified that the recovery of the digital scale gave him probable cause to believe that the drugs were for more than personal use. Mr. Micola was held on all charges in that case. (15-2-06; CR-0000088-07)
In a third preliminary hearing, Mr. Micola was charged with Terroristic Threats, Simple Assault, and Harassment relating to a separate domestic assault on March 30, in which the defendant allegedly struck his wife in the back and repeatedly threatented to kill her, in a complaint filed by Trp. Norman Strauss. The victim was treated on scene by EMS after suffering rib and back injuries. Mr. Micola was held on all charges in this case as well. (15-2-06; CR-0000131-07)
Mr. Micola was acquitted on summary harassment charges in a separate incident that occured at around 00:45 on February 27. (15-2-06; NT-0000175-07)
And thus ends a long session in Downingtown District Court. The fact that nearly 50 cases were heard in a relatively short period (under 4 hours, but it could've been less had it not been for the eight hearings, which cumulatively took nearly an hour and a half to complete.
SERIOUS ACCIDENT IN EAST BRADFORD
At around 15:20 this afternoon, WCPD responded to a report of an auto accident on the 1000 block of West Boot Road in East Bradford (WCPD #20070605M0054). Initial reports indicated two cars were involved, both blocking the roadway, and at least one person injured. The assignment was upgraded to add a paramedic after the report of one patient with a head injury. Upon arrival, fire command requested a direct fly of PennSTAR #2, with the landing zone east of the scene at Boot and Burgoyne Roads, just over the township line in West Whiteland. The victim, a 25-year-old female, was flown to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania with an altered level of consciousness and pain to the chest, chin, and right knee.
Assisting WCPD on the accident were Minquas Fire Company EMS (Ambulance and Medic 46), West Bradford Fire Company, and West Whiteland Fire Company (which set up the landing zone for PennSTAR).
Assisting WCPD on the accident were Minquas Fire Company EMS (Ambulance and Medic 46), West Bradford Fire Company, and West Whiteland Fire Company (which set up the landing zone for PennSTAR).
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
PURSUING A FOLLOW-UP
In a follow-up to a post last month, a 20-year-old Downingtown man was arrested last month following a high-speed pursuit that started just east of town and ended in East Bradford. Adam Wasyl Buczkowski was charged with Fleeing/Attempting to Elude an Officer, DUI, Minor in Possession of Alcohol, Reckless Driving, Careless Driving, Exceeding Posted Speed Limit by 50 mph, Failure to Drive at a Safe Speed, Driving the Wrong Way on a One-Way Street, Red Light Violation, and Reckless Endagnerment. (15-2-05, CR-0000089-07)
This is not the first time Buczkowski has had issues with his driving ability:
Now that's someone who has learned his lesson, eh?
Buczkowski's preliminary hearing is scheduled in front of Judge Darlington in East Goshen District Court on June 20. Based on recommended sentencing guidelines, and the fact that Fleeing or Eluding Police is only a 2nd degree misdemeanor in Pennsylvania, it's likely that Buczkowski will be serve little, if any, jail time.
Yeah, that'll teach him. Lovely state, that Pennsylvania. How fleeing from police isn't, at a minimum, a 3rd degree felony is beyond me...
This is not the first time Buczkowski has had issues with his driving ability:
- On April 28, 2005, Buczkowski was charged with Exceeding the Speed Limit by 61 mph in Uwchlan Twp; he pled guilty and paid a $247.50 fine (15-2-07, TR-0002067-05)
- On July 11, 2005, Buczkowski pled guilty to Failure to Drive at a Safe Speed and Failure to Use a Safety Belt in Wallace Twp and paid fines totalling $165.50 (15-3-06, TR-0002693-05 & TR-0002694-05)
- On October 31, 2006, Buczkowski pled guilty to speeding and was fined $122.50 for an incident in West Chester (15-1-04, TR-0008080-06)
- On March 22, Buczkowski was found guilty of Speeding following an incident handled by PSP/Embreeville in East Caln and paid $122.50 in fines (15-2-06, TR-0005587-06)
Now that's someone who has learned his lesson, eh?
Buczkowski's preliminary hearing is scheduled in front of Judge Darlington in East Goshen District Court on June 20. Based on recommended sentencing guidelines, and the fact that Fleeing or Eluding Police is only a 2nd degree misdemeanor in Pennsylvania, it's likely that Buczkowski will be serve little, if any, jail time.
Yeah, that'll teach him. Lovely state, that Pennsylvania. How fleeing from police isn't, at a minimum, a 3rd degree felony is beyond me...
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
FROM THE TOWNSHIP...
While I wasn't personally present, on Monday, West Chester Police prosecuted three criminal cases at District Court 15-2-06 in Downingtown, all directly or indirectly involving family or other domestic disputes in East Bradford...
In one case, a 51-year-old West Chester man was charged with 2 counts of aggravated assault, 3 counts of simple assault, reckless endangerment, and 2 weapons offenses following a domestic incident in the township early in the morning on April 19. After a hearing, Stewart Coyle Thomas was held for trial on all counts except for the count of "Make Repairs/Sell/Etc. Offensive Weapons" and is free on $5,000 unsecured bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000159-07)
Also pending in Downingtown on Monday were two cases which stemmed from a domestic disturbance in East Bradford. During the early evening hours of April 24, P/O Rey Melendez and other officers from Squad 4 responded to a report of a physical domestic with a possible weapon involved on the 1100 block of Forest Drive. During the incident, GFAC and Medic 91 responded to the scene, however no patients on scene required treatment or transport to the hospital.
Once the scene was secured, two people were arrested and processed at WCPD headquarters. Cheryl Ann Carnetta, 45, was charged with 2 counts of Simple Assault, and 1 count each of Possession of a Weapon, Possession of an Instrument of Crime, and Terroristic Threats; all charges against Carnetta were withdrawn. (15-2-06; CR-0000168-07) Wayne Shaw, 48, was charged with 2 counts of Simple Assualt, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphanalia; Shaw had all charges held for the Court of Common Pleas and is free on $10,000 bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000169-07)
In one case, a 51-year-old West Chester man was charged with 2 counts of aggravated assault, 3 counts of simple assault, reckless endangerment, and 2 weapons offenses following a domestic incident in the township early in the morning on April 19. After a hearing, Stewart Coyle Thomas was held for trial on all counts except for the count of "Make Repairs/Sell/Etc. Offensive Weapons" and is free on $5,000 unsecured bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000159-07)
Also pending in Downingtown on Monday were two cases which stemmed from a domestic disturbance in East Bradford. During the early evening hours of April 24, P/O Rey Melendez and other officers from Squad 4 responded to a report of a physical domestic with a possible weapon involved on the 1100 block of Forest Drive. During the incident, GFAC and Medic 91 responded to the scene, however no patients on scene required treatment or transport to the hospital.
Once the scene was secured, two people were arrested and processed at WCPD headquarters. Cheryl Ann Carnetta, 45, was charged with 2 counts of Simple Assault, and 1 count each of Possession of a Weapon, Possession of an Instrument of Crime, and Terroristic Threats; all charges against Carnetta were withdrawn. (15-2-06; CR-0000168-07) Wayne Shaw, 48, was charged with 2 counts of Simple Assualt, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphanalia; Shaw had all charges held for the Court of Common Pleas and is free on $10,000 bail. (15-2-06; CR-0000169-07)
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
A LITTLE MIDNIGHT MADNESS
As the clock struck midnight and Tuesday turned to Wednesday, a peaceful night turned chaotic, and amazingly enough it wasn't caused by the uptown bars...
State Police at Media had initiated a traffic stop along West Chester Pike in Edgmont, Delaware County. The driver of the vehicle then took off, leading troopers into Chester County along the Pike. The driver then entered West Chester, travelling the wrong way up Market Street, then exiting town on Bradford Ave (Route 52). At around 00:10, police caught the suspect on 52 near St Finegan's Drive in East Bradford. I'd suspect that this guy will be facing a ton of charges in Chester and Delaware Counties...
State Police at Media had initiated a traffic stop along West Chester Pike in Edgmont, Delaware County. The driver of the vehicle then took off, leading troopers into Chester County along the Pike. The driver then entered West Chester, travelling the wrong way up Market Street, then exiting town on Bradford Ave (Route 52). At around 00:10, police caught the suspect on 52 near St Finegan's Drive in East Bradford. I'd suspect that this guy will be facing a ton of charges in Chester and Delaware Counties...
Friday, January 5, 2007
BODY FOUND AT BRADFORD PLAZA
At around 20:30 last night, State Police/Embreeville responded to the report of a dead body found in the back of a SUV parked near the Giant at Bradford Plaza. The vehicle was registered to a West Bradford woman who was reported missing this past Saturday following a domestic dispute with her husband. The vehicle was discovered by an off-duty state trooper; at least 5 marked and un-marked State Police cars were on scene before the first West Chester officer was notified.
More comments on this case will follow later...
CBS 3 Report - http://cbs3.com/topstories/local_story_004235448.html
More comments on this case will follow later...
CBS 3 Report - http://cbs3.com/topstories/local_story_004235448.html
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