A Schuylkill County man was arraigned Tuesday afternoon on domestic abuse charges after his victim said he assaulted her twice over the last two days.
Eillin La Santa, 38, of New Philadelphia, appeared before Magisterial District Judge Edward Tarantelli and charged with a misdemeanor count of simple assault and a summary count of harassment.
State Police say they responded to a home in New Philadelphia Tuesday morning after La Santa’s girlfriend accused him of assaulting her over the last couple days.
La Santa allegedly accused the victim of infidelity and that led to a verbal argument that turned physical.
The victim reportedly told police that La Santa caused scratches and abrasions on her upper chest area after he shoved and grabbed her during their first confrontation.
Then, on Tuesday morning when police were eventually summoned to the scene, the victim reportedly told police that La Santa grabbed her and dragged her by her hair.
Police say video evidence is available that reportedly shows these incidents taking place.
Tarantelli asked police what their recommendation was on bail for La Santa. Police recommended unsecured bail in this case.
The judge scolded La Santa and told him that he relies heavily on the recommendation of police for bail conditions.
“You should really thank this Trooper for his recommendation,” Tarantelli said.
La Santa was warned not to have any contact, either directly or through another person, with his victim upon his release.
“I promise you, you will get a bail that you will not make,” the judge added.
La Santa said he was able to stay with his mother in Harrisburg until it was time for his preliminary hearing. That hearing is scheduled for Feb. 10, 2026, at District Court in Port Carbon.
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