Sunbury man pleads guilty to assault with a deadly weapon

By News-Item Staff)

Published: November 3, 2009

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SUNBURY - Joseph Rice, 20, of Sunbury, pleaded guilty Wednesday to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and was sentenced by Northumberland County President Judge Robert B. Sacavage to serve 20 to 40 months in a state correctional institution.

Rice has been confined to Northumberland County Prison in Sunbury since his assault arrest on Jan. 14.

Rice pleaded guilty to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a second degree felony. The charge was filed in connection with a Jan. 13 disturbance in the 500 block of Race Street in Sunbury.

According to the victim, who was not identified in a press release, the assault occurred after a meeting to buy marijuana turned bad. Police said Rice and several other males approached the victim's car to allegedly purchase marijuana when the defendant pulled a knife and struck the victim. While attempting to defend himself, the victim's arm was cut and his right ulna was fractured, requiring him to undergo medical treatment at Sunbury Community Hospital.

Following an investigation, Sunbury police filed charges against Rice.

Northumberland County District Attorney Tony Rosini commended Sunbury police for their investigation and Assistant District Attorney Melissa Norton for prosecuting the case.

Rosini said, "Since the victim was also involved in illegal activities, this was not an easy case to investigate or prosecute. This case is an example of a violent act committed in relation to a drug transaction."

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