CHICORA — Prosecutors on Thursday withdrew two charges but maintained others against a Center Township man who allegedly was depicted in a threatening image involving guns.

“I think it's the first step to a resolution for this,” said defense attorney Anthony Jackson, after a hearing held for his client.

Ryan C. McConnell, 24, is accused of having taken a photo of himself on social media holding an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle and ammunition with a caption that read, “Ready for school!”Having been free after posting $50,000 bond, McConnell and his attorney attended Thursday's preliminary hearing in-person before District Judge Lewis Stoughton. A representative from Butler Area School District also attended the hearing.Although the caption along with the photo did not list a specific school or school district, McConnell's residence is within Butler Area's district boundaries.McConnell waived his right to a preliminary hearing on three charges, including misdemeanor counts of terroristic threats, harassment and disorderly conduct.According to court documents, McConnell asserted to police that the message was a joke.“I understand we have to keep our children safe,” said Jackson after the hearing. “Knowing this case better, it's a big misunderstanding.”The remaining charges in the case, which included one felony count of aggravated assault and one misdemeanor count of reckless endangerment, were withdrawn by Assistant District Attorney David Beichner.“The facts of this case were appropriate for the charges that got waived to court,” Beichner said. “I have spoken with a representative from the district, and they have not voiced opposition.”With the remaining charges, McConnell is scheduled to appear for a formal arraignment June 1 in the Butler County Court of Common Pleas.

Ryan C. McConnell