Oct 29, 2017 2 min read

A corrections officer at SCI-Fayette who pleaded guilty to misdemeanor simple assault last month in Washington County Court was sentenced to 18 months’ probation during a brief hearing Friday.

Chad G. Reams, 40, of California Borough, was charged in March with throwing a chair at his wife, Nicole, causing a bruise. Two aggravated assault counts were dismissed at the magisterial level.

“It’s just been a difficult time for our family,” Nicole Reams told Judge Michael Lucas, who asked if she felt safe when in Chad Reams’ presence. She answered in the affirmative and said the defendant, who had no prior criminal record, has paid child support in accordance with a court order.

“If he would receive jail time or even house arrest, he could lose that job,” Reams’ attorney, Jason Adams, told the judge as part of his request that his client be placed on probation.

“I apologize to everybody,” Reams said. “If I could take it back, I would.”

Assistant District Attorney Adam Yarussi said a weapon-enhancement provision in the law would not apply to Reams, who reportedly handed a gun to a friend outside the home at the time of the incident. Police said Reams said he did not trust himself with the firearm.

The judge also ordered Reams to enter an anger-management program that includes counseling.