Greensburg woman accused of assaulting child during argument
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A Greensburg woman is in the Westmoreland County Prison on $25,000 bond after her arrest on child endangerment, simple assault and drug-related charges by city police.
Diane R. Morton, 31, was arraigned Sept. 24 by District Judge Chris Flanigan after police said neighbors called to report children yelling and the sounds of loud “banging” coming from inside Morton’s apartment along the 500 block of New Alexandria Road.
Patrolman Hank Fontana Jr. said neighbors were outside when police arrived about 9:45 p.m. and directed them to Morton’s apartment because they were concerned about the welfare of two children who live there.
Neighbors told police they saw Morton throw the 12-year-old onto the floor and allegedly kick him in the stomach inside the apartment during a verbal argument, according to court documents.
A 9-year-old also resides in the second-floor apartment, Fontana said in court papers.
Fontana said the kitchen appeared in “disarray” with multiple items on the floor and a glass bong and marijuana on the kitchen table. Police confiscated a small amount of marijuana and a grinder from the home, according to court documents.
“A woman was yelling and a child was sobbing” as police entered, according to Fontana.
Fontana said Morton’s speech was slurred and she was staggering.
Police said the 12-year-old had a swollen arm and was complaining of a sore hip.
Fontana said after Morton’s arrest, youth advocacy organizations were notified and both children were placed in the custody of a relative.
In addition to child endangerment, simple assault and possession of marijuana, Morton is charged with possession of drug paraphernalia and public drunkenness.
Court dockets indicated Morton has no prior criminal record in Pennsylvania. A preliminary hearing is scheduled Thursday before Flanigan.