(Pittsfield) On January 17, 2023, a jury in the Pittsfield District Court found high-risk offender David Bednarczyk guilty of assault and battery of a household family member and witness intimidation. On October 2, 2021, the defendant had struck his girlfriend twice in the face with an open hand (assault and battery of a household family member). He then stole the victim’s phone and car preventing her from getting help (witness intimidation). Mr. Bednarczyk was sentenced by the honorable Judge Pasquariello to 18 months in the Berkshire House of Corrections on assault and battery charges with an additional 30-day sentence for witness intimidation.
District Attorney Shugrue shares his admiration for the victim’s bravery in coming forward, testifying, and providing a victim impact statement. He also commends the jury for their thoughtful consideration of the evidence brought before them.
Additionally, DA Shugrue stated, “This case sheds light on the importance of the Domestic Violence High Risk Team. My administration will prioritize domestic violence prosecutions. We will be returning to in-person meetings for the High Risk Team to ensure its important work continues.”
The High Risk Team is made up of partner organizations which include law enforcement agencies, the courts, the Sherriff’s Department and the Elizabeth Freeman Center. The team meets monthly and uses evidence-based risk assessments to identify and intervene with offenders who are deemed at a heightened risk of lethality regarding intimate partner violence. Kristin Rapkowicz of the District Attorney’s Office leads the Team.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Aleah Fisher and assisted by Assistant District Attorney Mary O’Connor from the Berkshire County District Attorney’s Office.