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James Kratz, of Downingtown, was found guilty on charges of aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of a child, terroristic threats, and related offenses, Chester County District Attorney Deb Ryan announced Friday, April 15.
The incident began on Feb. 27, 2021, when Pennsylvania State Police were dispatched to a home on Steeple Chase Road in West Bradford Township in response to a report of a domestic disturbance, the DA said.
Kratz was standing in the front doorway when they arrived, refusing to obey verbal commands, police said.
That's when he allegedly threatened to shoot at officers if they did not leave. The troopers were forced to take cover when they heard gunfire and saw muzzle flashes, according to DA Ryan.
"A visibly shaken but uninjured 13-year-old child was found at the scene," the DA said.
Investigators also discovered a revolver on a table in the foyer of the house, they said.
“Domestic violence has no place in our society, but it happens more frequently than people like to think. James Kratz terrorized a young child inside a residence, and when law enforcement was called to help, he turned his fury on them," DA Deb Ryan said.
"Domestic disputes are often the most dangerous for law enforcement to deal with and we thank them for their important service. The defendant’s actions will undoubtedly haunt that child for the rest of his life, but this verdict will hopefully bring some closure for the victim.”
Kratz will be sentenced at a later date.
If you feel unsafe around someone you love, contact the Domestic Violence Center of Chester County’s 24/7 hotline at 888-711-6270 or 610-431-1430. Call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
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