Derry Borough’s former mayor, who is awaiting trial on charges he brandished a gun at four teens in a local park, will be refunded $18,000 after a judge on Monday reduced his bond.
Kevin Gross, 38, claimed he needed the cash to help pay living expenses and legal fees related to his arrest on aggravated assault and other charges in connection with the April incident at a playground near his Broad Street home.
Police said Gross pointed a gun at four teens during an argument in which his son was involved. Police said they found Gross with a holstered revolver loaded with 15 rounds when he was questioned about the incident.
Gross was freed from jail two days after he was arrested when he posted a $20,000 cash bond.
Westmoreland County Common Pleas Judge Christopher Feliciani agreed to change the terms of the bail to require he post only 10%, or $2,000.
Gross, who resigned as Derry’s mayor after his arrest, told the judge he is now unemployed and the money used to secure his release is needed to pay bills and provide for his family.
“His family needs the money to live,” defense attorney Tim Andrews said.
Andrews argued Gross is not a danger to flee the jurisdiction and is not a danger to the community.
Assistant District Attorney Pete Caravello said the public’s safety is still a concern. He said Gross’ family attempted to thwart sheriff deputies when they went to seize weapons in the home. Deputies confiscated 55 guns, some Andrews said were antiques, valued at more than $100,000.
“He intervened in a fight with children in a playground. Right now, there is a safety concern,” Caravello said.
Andrews said Gross will challenge the criminal case and a court filing is expected soon calling for charges to be dismissed.
Under terms of his modified bond, Gross is required to meet weekly with probation officials and have no contact with his alleged victims.
