Allegheny Co. Republican Committee Official Charged With Assaulting Girlfriend
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The executive director of a local political party is facing assault charges in connection with an alleged domestic violence incident involving his girlfriend.
Police say an argument between the two turned physical.
According to the criminal complaint, a neighbor told police he and a friend were standing on his porch in the in 300 block of Bailey Street in Mount Washington when he noticed a man and a woman arguing and eventually throwing punches inside a Jeep that was parked nearby.
The male in the vehicle has been identified by investigators as John Schnaedter, who is the executive director of the Republican Committee of Allegheny County.
The criminal complaint reports that the victim told police "Schnaedter pulled her out of the vehicle and punched her."
The witness said he later noticed the woman lying on the sidewalk and called police.
Lisa Washington's Report:
Officers found her with scratches and bruises on her face and snow and mud on her clothing. Schnaedter walked away before police arrived.
According to the criminal complaint, the victim said they were arguing over "petty stuff" and she took the blame for antagonizing him. Police asked her if she wanted a Protection from Abuse Order, but she declined, saying she wanted to think it over first.
Officers found Schnaedter at his apartment not far away on Eutaw Street where he was arrested without incident.
Schnaedter is facing charges of simple assault and is free on non-monetary bond.
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The Republican Committee of Allegheny County released a statement Wednesday night, announcing the suspension of Schnaedter.
"We do not condone the behavior outlined in the police report, and these allegations are inconsistent with the values of our committee," said Chairman D. Raja.
Raja said Schnaedter will remain suspended until his court hearing Thursday, when a final decision will be made.
Schnaedter was once a political consultant. He worked for former Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Corbett's campaign.
