MONROE TWP., Pa. (EYT) — A couple face charges after an early Sunday morning domestic incident at a local motel.

Court documents indicate that Clarion-based State Police filed criminal charges against 56-year-old John Paul Sikora, of Hunlock Creek, Pa., and 51-year-old Paula Luanne Devine, of Sunbury, Pa.

According to a criminal complaint, Troopers Norris and Gezik were called to a Monroe Township motel for a domestic dispute that occurred around 12:45 a.m. on Sunday, February 11.

Upon arrival, Trooper Norris spoke with Paula Devine in the parking lot of the motel. She stated that she engaged in a verbal argument with Sikora, her fiancee. The argument then became physical, and Devine allegedly said she bit and grabbed Sikora. Devine said that Sikora shoved her, causing her to fall and strike her head, causing a cut to her head, the complaint states.

Trooper Norris then talked to Sikora inside the motel room. He stated that Devine bit his arm while he was lying in bed. When he tried to leave the room, Devine grabbed him, scratching his neck. Then, he threw Devine off of him, and she fell into the closet, causing a cut to her head, according to the complaint.

Sikora had teeth marks on his right tricep, which had drawn blood, and a small scratch on the right side of his neck.

Both individuals were each arraigned at 5:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 11, in front of District Judge Timothy Schill on the following charges:

– Simple Assault, Misdemeanor 2
– Harassment — Subject Other to Physical Contact, Summary
– Disorderly Conduct Engage In Fighting, Summary

Sikora and Devine are free on $1,000.00 monetary (10%) bail each.

Preliminary hearings are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 20, in front of Judge Schill.