HORSEHEADS — New York State Police arrested a 39-year-old man June 10 following a domestic dispute that ended with him operating a riding lawn mower in the roadway.
Matthew Chorney was taken into custody at approximately 10:34 p.m. after troopers responded to a report of a domestic dispute at a residence in the town of Horseheads, Chemung County.
Upon arrival, troopers observed Chorney operating a 2016 John Deere riding lawn mower in the roadway.
Chorney refused multiple lawful commands to dismount the mower and actively resisted arrest when approached by law enforcement.
An investigation revealed that Chorney caused damage inside the home and engaged in threatening behavior toward a female family member.
He allegedly physically restrained her, prevented her from leaving a room, and acted in a manner that put her health and safety at risk.
He also caused a disturbance in other areas of the residence by throwing household items.
Chorney was charged with unlawful imprisonment 1st (E felony), aggravated family offense (E felony), aggravated unlicensed operator 1st (E felony), three counts of criminal mischief 4th (A misdemeanor), reckless endangerment 2nd (A misdemeanor), resisting arrest (A misdemeanor), obstructing governmental administration 2nd (A misdemeanor), driving while ability impaired and multiple traffic violations.
Chorney was arraigned in the Town of Horseheads Court and remanded to the Chemung County Jail in lieu of $1,000 cash or $2,000 bond.
A full stay-away order of protection was issued on behalf of the victim.
The defendant is scheduled to return to court June 16 at 10:00 a.m.
