By Jaime North
The Danville News
Sun, May 18 2008
—
DANVILLE -- A 42-year-old Valley Township man who threatened his neighbors with an AK-47 assault rifle last summer admitted Tuesday in Montour County Court his excessive alcohol use was a contributing factor in the dispute.
David Winders, 42, of 95 Creek Road, was sentenced to 31 days to 18 months in Montour County Jail by Columbia-Montour President Judge Scott W. Naus on charges of terroristic threats. Winders was given 31 days credit for time already served in jail and was immediately paroled.
"Being very angry and having weapons is a very bad combination," Naus said. "That's a known fact."
Winders was arrested on July 8 by state police at Milton when he appeared outside the home of his neighbor, Fred Hagenbuch, 45, of 92 Creek Road, with the assault rifle. Police said Winders made threats toward Hagenbuch and his wife but did not say what prompted the dispute.
Montour County District Attorney Robert Buehner Jr. recommended Winders be evaluated for drug and alcohol abuse.
"I believe there's been an underlying alcohol problem here, which seems to have contributed to this situation," Buehner said. "For him to abide by the recommendation (of the evaluation) is in his best interest for his rehabilitation. It appears his problems stem from alcohol abuse."
Winders, who stood quietly during the sentence proceeding, simply replied, "I guess it seems my drinking was a cause."
E-mail comments to jnorth@thedanvillenews.com.
Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.