Tamaqua man jailed for assault

A Tamaqua man will spend a considerable amount of time in the Schuylkill County prison, Pottsville, following a domestic incident in the borough on Thursday, Dec. 2.

Police were dispatched to 234 Mauch Chunk St. at 3:15 p.m. where they were told that Michael Brode, 20, had pushed his companion, Justin Startzel, 21, down the stairs. Brode also allegedly pushed Startzel's sister, Ciara Startzel, 20, who lives in a different apartment at the same address. Statement forms were completed by both Startzels as well as a witness. Brode was given multiple opportunities to also complete a statement form, which he failed to do.

At 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Brode was arraigned before District Judge Stephen Bayer, Tamaqua, on charges of simple assault, disorderly conduct and harassment. Since Brode was on probation at the time, bail was set at $25,000 straight cash bond. As officers prepared to transport Brode to the county jail, he broke free and fled on to Broad Street. Following a short foot pursuit, Patrolman Matt Houser was able to tackle Brode and subdue him with the assistance of Patrolman Karl Harig.

Brode was taken back to Bayer's office and was arraigned on charges of flight/escape. Bail was set at $50,000 straight cash bond, in addition to the original $25,000.

Officials of the Schuylkill County Adult Probation Office informed Tamaqua police they would be working to revoke Brode's parole.