West Newton, PA -- A West Newton man was arrested by local police after an altercation with multiple neighbors and the arresting police officer.  

Joseph Babilya, 31, was charged with aggravated assault, attempted robbery, disarming a law enforcement officer, obstruction, simple assault, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

West Newton Police were called after Babilya started yelling at neighbors on East Main Street around 10 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6, 2023.

Police said he was shirtless and shoeless as he was screaming and beating on parked cars, while chasing people who were walking down the street.

Babilya is accused of engaging in an argument with another man who was trying to get into his vehicle, jumped on the hood, before the two started wrestling in the street.

Police said Babilya grabbed the man’s legally concealed handgun from the back of his waistband before the man could disarm him and fight him off.

When West Newton Police responded, Babilya allegedly jumped on the hood of the patrol car and continued being aggressive and violent toward police.

Police tasered Babilya with negative results. Babilya kicked the taser out of the officer’s hand.

As the fight ensued, the West Newton Police Officer was stunned by Babilya while the two wrestled over the taser.

Several bystanders helped police get Babilya under control and in custody as Rostraver Police arrived to assist.

Police believe Babilya was under the influence of drugs at time. He is being housed in the Westmoreland County Prison on $100,000 bail.

Disclaimer: To the extent that pending criminal matters are discussed, all such charges are merely accusations and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.