Published: June 30, 2008 11:21 pm            

Felonies dropped against Northern Cambria police chief

Northern Cambria Borough’s police chief likely will return to his job soon, after felony charges against him were withdrawn Mon-day at his preliminary hearing.

Chief Kevin Stanek, 49, arrived at District Judge John Barron’s court with the support of his wife, stepson, co-workers and members of Borough Council.

Stanek was charged with aggravated assault against a police officer, terroristic threats, DUI and resisting arrest after an altercation with Susquehanna Township police Officer Ronald Schilling on April 12.

Stanek responded to the scene of his stepson’s DUI stop about 2 a.m., allegedly intoxicated, out of uniform and driving an unmarked borough cruiser.

“The felony (charges) are gone, and that’s what’s important, because I need my client to get back to work,” said Stanek’s attorney, Thomas Dickey of Altoona.

DUI and resisting arrest charges were waived to Cambria County Court.

“I’m hopeful we can work those other charges out,” Dickey said. “I’m just pleased to see the felonies withdrawn, because it’s worth it to me to avoid a circus.”

In an agreement reached behind closed doors of the judge’s chambers, Schilling – with the consent of Assistant District Attorney Michael Carbonara – withdrew the felony counts against Stanek.

Stanek, as a Susquehanna Township supervisor, is technically Schilling’s boss.

Schilling didn’t give a reason for the withdrawal.

Visibly happy with the outcome, Stanek shook hands with Northern Cambria Borough Councilman Willie Kelly, Mayor Gennaro Cantalupo and fellow Officer Dave Hassen, who has been the officer-in-charge since Stanek’s suspension in May.

Stanek directed comment to Dickey.

“I hope (Stanek) gets back to work,” Dickey said.

“The felony charges against him prevented him from returning to work.”

While Stanek took a Breathalyzer that registered a blood-alcohol level of 0.16 – more than twice the legal limit – he initially refused a blood-alcohol test at Miners Medical Center.

Stanek’s refusal prompted an automatic driver’s license suspension, which Dickey is appealing.

“As long as it is under appeal, my client is allowed to drive,” he said. Stanek told Barron that he has been working at Rydbom’s Auto Sales in Northern Cambria since his suspension.

Dickey said the remaining charges do not require Stanek to lose his job as an officer.

Greg Kline, Stanek’s stepson, also waived his charges to county court. Both men were released on $15,000 unsecured bail each.

Kelly and Cantalupo said they were relieved at Monday’s outcome, understanding that council’s actions will continue to be heavily scrutinized.

Council will hold an executive session to discuss Stanek’s future.

“We’ve got to sit down and talk,” Kelly said.

“Regardless of the opinion the public has formed, the right thing to do is to put Chief Stanek back to work.”

Cantalupo agreed. He said he has known Stanek for years and wants him back at the helm.

“He has done a lot for this community. Everyone make mistakes,” Cantalupo said of the 28-year veteran.

Kelly said he is prepared for either support or backlash from residents.

“Some people will be upset, and some will be grateful this pressure is relieved,” he said.

        

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