Man accused of Taser attack on stranger in Paradise Township waives hearing
Paradise Township, PA – A Salisbury Township man charged with randomly assaulting a woman inside her home using a Taser has waived his preliminary hearing, allowing the case to proceed to county court on multiple felony charges.
Benjamin Andrew Brinker, 34, of the 700 block of Azalea Lane, is accused of forcing his way into a home in the 200 block of South Belmont Road on the afternoon of August 19 and attacking a woman with a stun gun and his fists. The victim, who did not know Brinker, was struck in the chest near her heart by a Taser projectile and fell to the floor. She told police Brinker then punched her in the face before fleeing the scene.
Brinker waived his preliminary hearing on September 3 before Magisterial District Judge Raymond Sheller. He faces charges of burglary, aggravated assault, and use of an incapacitation device — all felony offenses.
According to investigators, Brinker approached the home and forced his way in through a partially opened door while holding the Taser. After the assault, the victim’s husband saw Brinker fleeing north on South Belmont Road just before 4 p.m.
Pennsylvania State Police traced a cartridge cover left behind at the scene back to Brinker using serial numbers and purchase records provided by the Taser manufacturer. Authorities said he had also purchased additional cartridges just days before the incident. Surveillance video from the neighborhood captured Brinker walking away from his vehicle approximately 1,250 feet from the scene minutes before the attack.
Brinker remains held in Lancaster County Prison in lieu of $1.5 million bail. The District Attorney’s office requested the increased bail due to the severity and nature of the offense.
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Key Points
- Benjamin Brinker waived his preliminary hearing on felony charges stemming from a Taser assault
- The victim was shocked in the chest and punched inside her Paradise Township home
- Investigators identified Brinker using serial numbers on a cartridge left at the scene