SIGEL: A Sigel man is facing multiple criminal charges following an alleged domestic incident at a residence in Eldred Township, Jefferson County. Andrew Michael Steele, 38, has been charged with strangulation, simple assault, and harassment after a confrontation with his significant other on March 24, 2025.
According to court documents and a criminal complaint filed by Trooper Dawson Davenport of the State Police, the incident occurred at approximately 7:10 p.m. at a home on Oakdale Road. The altercation reportedly escalated in the master bedroom doorway, where Steele allegedly grabbed the victim by the neck, lifted her off the ground, and threw her onto the bed. The victim reported experiencing difficulty breathing due to Steele’s grip, and responding officers observed redness on her collarbone area, consistent with the reported choking.
During an interview with law enforcement at the scene, Steele allegedly admitted to choking the victim and throwing her onto the bed.
Following the incident, Steele was taken into custody and transported to Jefferson County Jail. However, he was later released after a private surety posted $1,000 of his $10,000 bail. Steele is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on May 5, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. before Magisterial District Judge Gregory M. Bazylak.
The case remains under investigation, and Steele faces serious charges that carry significant legal consequences.
