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Driver accused of DUI, threats

ADAMS TWP — A 50-year-old Cranberry Township man was arrested after he allegedly threatened two police officers following a weekend traffic stop.

Adams Township police stopped James E. Skundrich about 2:45 a.m. Sunday after he was spotted going the wrong way on the one-way exit ramp on Route 228 at Three Degree Road.

While speaking to the suspect, Patrolman Christopher Thiel smelled a “strong odor” of alcohol coming from him, according to court documents. The officer also noticed two beer cans on the rear passenger side floor.

Skundrich admitted to having consumed “a couple drinks” that night, police said.

While Thiel and Patrolman Andra Schmid had the suspect perform field sobriety tests, documents said, he stated, “This could end with a gun.

The defendant also allegedly warned the officers that when he got out of jail he would come to their homes.

“He also stated that if he sees us on the street,” Thiel said in his affidavit, “it will not be a friendly encounter.”

Additionally, police said, he told the officers, “You’re done.”

He was arrested for suspicion of drunken driving but refused to take a blood test. Police said he was searched and found with a partially burned suspected marijuana cigarette.

District Judge William Fullerton arraigned Skundrich on criminal charges of terroristic threats, driving under the influence and possession of marijuana. He also was cited for driving the wrong way on a one-way road, driving a vehicle without valid inspection and driving with an open container of alcohol.

He was placed in the Butler County Prison on $10,000 bail following arraignment.

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