Man gets probation for trying to run over ex-lover's boyfriend in Derry Township

A former Greensburg man was ordered Wednesday to serve five years on probation for an attempt to run over a romantic rival with his car this year in Derry Township.

Robert Kuszajewski, 28, now of Jeannette, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of simple assault, reckless endangerment and making terroristic threats in connection with an incident on July 3, in which police said he lured his former paramour’s boyfriend onto South Summit Street via threatening text messages.

According to court records, Kuszajewski sped up his vehicle and attempted to strike his victim, who jumped out of the way.

Kuszajewski, when questioned by police that night, claimed the brakes on his vehicle failed and that he was forced to apply his parking brake to slow the car, police said.

Investigators said about 15 feet of skid marks were found on the road near where the incident was alleged to have occurred and an inspection of Kuszajewski’s car determined the braking system was in working order.

The plea bargain approved by Common Pleas Court Judge Christopher Feliciani included an agreement by prosecutors to dismiss more serious felony offenses of aggravated assault and aggravated assault by vehicle.