WORTHINGTON -- John Paul Matias, 21, of Worthington, was released on his own recognizance after being charged last week with second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon.
The complaint states authorities were contacted with a report of harassment on Oct. 7. The victim said he was at the corner of Clary Street and Burlington Avenue when Matias approached him carrying a crowbar. Matias allegedly took a swing at the victim, but missed. The victim said he avoided Matias and ran away. Matias then reportedly jumped into a white Chrysler and drove away.
When officers located Matias at his home a few hours later and questioned him about the incident, Matias said he was mad at the victim because he believed the victim broke into his house two years ago. The victim, Matias said, had recently been "gloating" about the break-in.
Matias told authorities he was driving when he saw the victim and a few of the man's friends. Because he didn't want to get assaulted, he pulled a car jack handle out from behind the driver's seat of the car. When authorities asked to see the handle, Matias went to his car and removed a 2-foot long crowbar.
After being arrested, he declined to give a statement. Matias' wife said she and their two children were in the car when the incident took place.
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Matias was released on the conditions he has no contact with the victim, stays in touch with his court-appointed attorney and uses no drugs or alcohol. His next court appearance is at 9 a.m. Oct. 21 at Prairie Justice Center, Worthington.
