Jan 22, 2014 2 min read

A North Strabane Township man faces charges stemming from two incidents earlier this week at the Valley View Terrace home of his former girlfriend.

Canonsburg police will charge Lawrence Patterson, 21, of 772 S. Central Ave., with aggravated assault, harassment, criminal mischief, theft and endangering the welfare of children after he allegedly assaulted 20-year-old Shaelyn Saunoras at her home at 524 Valley View Terrace Monday. He also will be charged with criminal trespass, criminal mischief and harassment for reportedly forcing his way into her home Tuesday.

Police were initially called about 7:20 a.m. Monday for a report of a disturbance involving a knife. Police said Patterson was gone when officers arrived.

Saunoras told police that she was sleeping when Patterson apparently went through her cellphone and found a text message that another man had sent to her. She said Patterson started yelling at her and punched her in the face six or seven times. He then allegedly dragged her down the stairs into the living room.

When Saunoras tried to call police, Patterson reportedly grabbed her cellphone and threw it against the wall. A hole was left in the wall, police said. Patterson then allegedly got a butcher knife and held it to Saunoras’ throat. Police said he then stole $200 and left.

Police said that in addition to the injuries suffered in the assault, Saunoras cut her feet when she stepped on dishes broken during the incident.

On Tuesday, Patterson allegedly returned to her home, kicked in the door, went to the second floor, grabbed an unknown item and fled.

Charges will be filed at the office of District Judge David Mark.