A Penn Yan man is facing assault and harassment charges following a domestic incident last fall.
Authorities say 42-year-old Jason Stephens was arrested after an investigation into a physical domestic that occurred on September 23. Police report that the victim, a woman, was found lying in the roadway on East Elm Street with a bloody nose, an abrasion on her hand, and swelling on the back of her head.
According to the investigation, the victim told officers that Stephens had punched her during the incident and then fled the scene. At the time, police were unable to locate Stephens, and the victim was not cooperative with the investigation.
Officers made contact with Stephens on January 28. During an interview, he admitted to a physical altercation with the victim but denied punching her, saying he had only shoved her.
Stephens was taken into custody and transported to Yates County Jail, where he awaits arraignment.
An order of protection has been issued for the victim.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
