Police charge three after assault investigation

On June 10, 2012 at approximately 0318 hours, Officers from the Columbia Borough Police Department were dispatched to the 400 block of Locust Street for an assault. Officers arrived and located a 24 year old Columbia woman who had serious injuries resulting from the assault. Police learned through their investigation that Eric J. Dommel (28) of Lancaster had broken into her apartment through a window and assaulted her while she was sleeping. Dommel threatened to "kill" the victim. The victim was able to escape and run out of the apartment and down Locust Street with Dommel chasing after her. A bystander protected the victim and called Police to the scene. The victim was transported to an area hospital. Eric J. Dommel fled the scene after stealing the victim's cellular phone. A felony warrant was obtained for Dommel. An extensive search was conducted with Officers from the Columbia Borough Police, West Hempfield Township Police, East Hempfield Township Police to include their K9 Unit, and Susquehanna Regional Police. Officers searched several local residences after receiving information regarding his location. While investigating a tip in the 200 Blk of S. 4th Street a small marihuana growing operation was uncovered and two people were taken into custody. A 24 year old Columbia man that was taken into custody will be charged with a Violation of the Controlled Substance Act for possession and manufacturing a controlled substance. Michael J. Lindsey, a 30 year old Manheim resident was arrested for an outstanding Bench Warrant through the Lancaster County Sheriff's Office. Police continued to track Dommel through the victim's cell phone and were able to apprehend him in the 300 blk of Linden Street in Columbia.

He was transported to the Lancaster City Police for central arraignment on charges of Burglary, Terroristic Threats and Simple Assault.