WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County District Attorney’s Office reported a series of significant court outcomes, arrests, and ongoing prosecutions during the week of January 12, reflecting a broad range of alleged criminal activity across the county.
According to the district attorney’s office, a Chester County jury on Wednesday found Damonte Reason, 23, of Coatesville, guilty of aggravated assault and related charges following a three-day trial before Judge Patrick Carmody. Prosecutors alleged that Reason intentionally fired multiple gunshots at several individuals standing on a porch at a Coatesville residence before fleeing the scene. District Attorney Christopher de Barrena-Sarobe credited collaboration between his office and Coatesville City Police for the outcome. Despite the verdict, Reason is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law through the completion of all legal proceedings.
In a separate matter, authorities announced the January 15 arrest of Kathleen Elicker, 61, of West Chester, on allegations including theft by failure to make required disposition of funds, receiving stolen property, and theft by unlawful taking or disposition. Investigators allege that while serving as treasurer and negotiations chair of the Coatesville Area Teachers Association from the 2019–2020 through 2022–2023 school years, Elicker misappropriated association funds and deposited them into personal accounts. Bail was set at $50,000 unsecured. All charges are allegations, and Elicker is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Also on January 15, David Bracetty was sentenced by Judge Bret M. Binder to 5 to 12 years in state prison following a jury verdict on charges including retaliation against a witness or victim, stalking, and intimidation. Prosecutors alleged Bracetty threatened and harassed his former girlfriend, damaged her property, violated a protection from abuse order, and posted explicit material online. Although the jury rendered a guilty verdict, Bracetty is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law through the appellate process.
The district attorney’s office also announced the January 16 arrest of Matthew Hogan, 30, of Malvern, on allegations including unlawful contact with minors, sexual assault of minors, and related offenses. Investigators allege the case originated from a cyber tip received in October 2025 and involved explicit online communications with minors using social media platforms. Hogan was unable to post $500,000 bail and was remanded to Chester County Prison. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, with additional alleged victims still being identified. Hogan is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
District Attorney de Barrena-Sarobe urged anyone with information related to the Hogan investigation to contact Chester County Detectives and reminded the public to report concerns involving child safety to law enforcement or ChildLine.
All criminal matters referenced remain subject to the judicial process. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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