LANCASTER, PA — A Lancaster man was recently convicted by jury of strangling his ex-girlfriend in fall 2022.
Juan Bailer, 58 of the 700 block of Skyline Drive, was found guilty of a single charge of strangulation against a family or household member – a second-degree felony – after a two-day trial before Lancaster County Judge Jeffery Wright. The jury deliberated for roughly an hour.
Assistant District Attorney Jaimes Spring presented testimony and evidence that Bailer stalked his ex-girlfriend to her car from a local club and strangled her until she nearly lost consciousness. A witness testified that he had to use a wooden bat to pry the defendant off the victim and out of the victim’s car.
During the closing argument, ADA Spring played the victim’s chilling 911 call and showed the jury photos of the victim’s injuries. ADA Spring argued that the defendant was “jealous, angry, and controlling” and quoted the defendant who told the victim, “Don’t worry…it will all be over soon,” as she struggled to breathe and to fight Bailer off.
On September 11, 2022, at approximately 11:32 p.m., police were dispatched to the 700 block of Chestnut Street regarding a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, officers stopped Bailer, who admitted to being in an argument with the victim. The victim reported being choked by Bailer and feeling close to losing consciousness with neck injuries. A witness intervened to prevent further injury.
Judge Wright set bail at $5,000 monetary.
Lancaster City Bureau of Police Officer Nathan Parr filed charges.
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