SHAMOKIN - The city man whose alleged threats led police to shut down a part of Market Street and keep nearby restaurant patrons inside waived various charges to court Tuesday before Magisterial District Judge John Gembic III. Joseph Menapace, 59, of 12 N. Market St., Apt. 12-1-B, was ordered to appear for plea court June 3 in Northumberland County Court, Sunbury, where he can plead guilty or no contest, or seek a trial by pleading not guilty.
He is charged with recklessly endangering another person, terroristic threats, simple assault, disorderly conduct and harassment involving an April 30 standoff at his apartment building, in which he allegedly assaulted his wife and threatened to kill her, police and himself.
The charges were filed by Shamokin Patrolman William Zalinski.
Following the 8:30 p.m. disturbance that locked down the area for about 40 minutes, Menapace was taken into custody and later transported by AREA Services Ambulance to Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, for evaluation.
Sometime the next morning, Menapace was released from the hospital and called his wife, Lucinda Menapace, whom he allegedly assaulted the night before, for a ride home.
Police said Lucinda Menapace refused to give her husband a ride; however, he showed up at their apartment shortly after 9 a.m. and began banging on the door, demanding his wallet. Mrs. Menapace summoned police and her husband was once again taken into custody at approximately 9:30 a.m. by several officers, police reported.