Key Takeaways
- A 46-year-old Indianapolis pastor was arrested for allegedly assaulting a teen boy riding a motorized bike in their neighborhood.
- The suspect faces battery and intimidation charges after reportedly pushing the boy off his bike and making threats.
- The incident has sparked community outrage and support for the victim’s family, including a GoFundMe campaign for legal representation.
The Indianapolis community is in shock following the arrest of Jason “Jay” Harrell, a 46-year-old man accused of assaulting a 14-year-old boy for riding his motorized bike in their neighborhood.
Harrell, who owns Jay Harrell’s Plumbing and is reportedly a pastor, faces serious charges, including intimidation with a threat to commit a forcible felony and two counts of battery resulting in bodily injury.
Details About The Incident
The altercation took place on Saturday in the Heatherwood Estates neighborhood of Indianapolis.
According to court documents, the victim, Jordan, was riding his street-legal motorized bike on the roadway when Harrell approached him in a white van.
Witnesses and reports state that Harrell extended his arm out of the van and pushed Jordan off his bike.
Turned around, pushed the boy again, and punched him in the face while he was on the ground.
After that, he threatened the teenager, allegedly saying, “Stay out of the road or I’ll k*ll you.”
Jordan was wearing a helmet at the time, which likely minimized his injuries. Despite a bleeding lip and pain, the family declined medical assistance.
Community Outrage And Support For The Victim
When questioned by the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), Harrell denied hitting the boy but admitted to yelling at him over what he described as “habitual behavior” that had been an ongoing issue in the neighborhood.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage in the Heatherwood Estates community.
Britney Schwitzke, the victim’s mother, took to social media to share her frustration, writing:
“This grown man assaulted Jordan today for riding his bike in the neighborhood. His name is Jason B. Harrell. What kind of people treat kids this way?”
Via Facebook
A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help Jordan’s family secure legal representation, with a goal of $4,500.
The campaign highlights the community’s efforts to rally behind the Schwitzke family, ensuring that justice is served for Jordan.
The Indianapolis community has shown overwhelming support for Jordan and his family. Britney expressed her gratitude on social media:
“I appreciate everyone’s support for my son Jordan and what happened to him yesterday. Let’s rally together to ensure justice is served.”
Via Facebook
The case has also sparked conversations about neighborhood dynamics and the importance of fostering a safe, respectful environment for children.
As the legal process unfolds, Harrell faces significant charges that could have long-term consequences.
For now, the Schwitzke family is focused on seeking justice for Jordan while relying on the support of their community to navigate this difficult time.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Harrell is currently facing the following charges: intimidation with a threat to commit a forcible felony (Level 6 Felony) and two counts of battery resulting in bodily injury (Class A Misdemeanors).
- The incident has severely impacted Harrell’s reputation. His plumbing business, Jay Harrell’s Plumbing, has been inundated with negative reviews and criticism online.
