Two convicted in nonjury trials
Two men charged with crimes against women were convicted recently in Washington County Court in nonjury trials.
Richard J. Heinold Jr., 29, of Aliquippa, Beaver County, who was arrested by state police in April of last year, was found guilty of strangulation, a second-degree felony; misdemeanor simple assault and summary harassment.
Judge Valarie Costanzo revoked Heinold’s bail and sent him to the county jail until his sentencing Jan. 25.
Heinold was accused of grabbing his ex-girlfriend in her Bentleyville home and squeezing her neck. She was able to escape when he released his grip.
Justin White, 28, of McDonald, was found guilty of reckless endangment Dec. 26 in the parking lot of a Strabane Square store. South Strabane Township police accused White of driving toward a female neighbor at a high rate of speed.
Judge Gary Gilman also convicted White of harassment and driving while under suspension.
The judge found that the prosecution did not prove a charge of simple assault beyond a reasonable doubt. Sentencing is scheduled for next week.