Police: Hammer used in attack
DONORA – A landlord was arrested Thursday on allegations he attacked one of his tenants in Donora with a hammer because the man fell behind on his rent.
Daniel R. Bowman, 31, of 7 E. Hillsboro Road, Amity, was apprehended on a warrant charging him with aggravated assault, simple assault, theft by extortion and disorderly conduct, court records state.
The renter, Calvin Masten, reported to borough police he was upstairs asleep at his 705 Chestnut St. residence when he heard someone pounding on his door about 6:45 p.m. Monday.
Masten said he got up to answer the door, only to find Bowman was already inside by the time the two met on the stairs, police stated in the affidavit supporting the criminal charges.
Police claim Bowman had a hammer in hand and used it to strike Masten before he got on top of him and struck him several more times. The extent of the victim’s injuries was not immediately known Friday.
Masten told police Bowman was upset at him for being late on the rent, and Bowman stole his wallet containing $50 before throwing him across the kitchen table, the affidavit indicates.
Bowman also faces allegations he forced Masten to sign a form on which he agreed against his will to give Bowman his video games and television in lieu of rent.
Bowman spent two hours in Washington County jail Thursday before posting his $10,000 bond set by District Judge Mark Wilson.