Lewisburg Man Arrested for Strangulation, Assault; Bail Set $75,000

Jared Lee Nicholes, 32, of St. John Street in Lewisburg, was arrested after Buffalo Valley Regional Police say he assaulted and strangled a woman in her apartment, prompting questions about community safety and support for victims of domestic violence.

Patrolman James Gehman filed charges in the Lewisburg office of District Judge Jeffrey Rowe after Gehman and Officer Kevin Rushton responded to a 6:19 a.m. call reporting a mental health crisis. Officers found Nicholes detained when they arrived, police said. Nicholes was charged with one felony count of strangulation, two misdemeanor counts of terroristic threats and simple assault, and a summary count of harassment.

According to the police report, the victim told officers that Nicholes had been living in the home for several months and had recently completed probation. Since that time, police said, he had been drinking heavily and had become physically abusive. The victim described Nicholes that evening as “uncontrollable, and calling the police was the only way to calm him down,” police said.

Police allege Nicholes threatened to kill the woman multiple times and attempted to choke her. Officers documented hand marks on the victim’s neck as well as marks and bruises on her temple and the inner part of her arm; photographs were taken for evidence. Nicholes was arraigned and bail was set at $75,000 cash. He was scheduled for a preliminary hearing on Jan. 29 before Judge Rowe.

For Union County residents, the case underscores the intersecting public health issues of intimate partner violence, substance use, and unmet mental health needs. Domestic assaults often escalate when alcohol and unresolved behavioral health concerns are present, and survivors in small boroughs can face barriers to leaving abusive situations because of housing, employment, or limited local resources.

Local law enforcement and social service coordination will shape how the community responds. Police documentation and criminal charges address immediate safety and accountability, but prevention and support require accessible counseling, substance use treatment, and safe housing options. Neighbors, landlords and health providers in Lewisburg can play roles in recognizing risk signs and connecting people to care before violence occurs.

The case will proceed through the court system with a preliminary hearing on Jan. 29; meanwhile, it is a reminder for residents and local officials to prioritize victim services, strengthen crisis response, and pursue community-based strategies to reduce domestic violence and support recovery.