An Ashland man is facing charges of simple assault and harassment after police responded to a domestic dispute earlier this month.
According to an affidavit filed by Ashland Police Officer Tyler Dissinger, officers were dispatched to 312 West Centre Street, Apartment 6, on January 8, 2025, around 4:00 PM. The call originated from a neighbor, who reported loud yelling and screaming coming from the apartment.
Upon arrival, officers made contact with the victim, who was sitting on the front porch of the building. The victim informed police that a verbal argument over household chores had escalated into a physical altercation with her live-in boyfriend, 21-year-old Justin Richardson.
The victim stated that she had retreated to a bedroom in an attempt to avoid further conflict, but Richardson followed her, and the dispute turned violent. She alleged that Richardson struck her in the face and bit her on the left cheek.
Officer Dissinger documented visible injuries, including a swollen, cut, and bloody lip, as well as a fresh bite mark on the victim's cheek. Photographs of the injuries were taken, and a written statement was collected from the victim.
Richardson, 21, was taken into custody without incident at the scene by Officer Dissinger, Officer Clinton, and Officer Gonzalez. He was transported to the Ashland Police Department for processing.
Richardson was later arraigned before on-call Magisterial District Judge Dave Plachko of Port Carbon. Bail was set at $25,000 straight cash, and Richardson was committed to Schuylkill County Prison.
On January 23, 2025, Richardson posted bail through a professional bondsman. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for January 29, 2025, before Magisterial District Judge Edward Tarantelli.