Domestic violence charges dropped against Public Welfare official

(Harrisburg) -- Charges stemming from an alleged domestic dispute have been dropped against a special adviser to Pennsylvania's Department of Public Welfare secretary.

Simple assault and harassment counts against 33-year-old Brandon Danz of Lower Allen Township were dismissed yesterday after the alleged victim refused to testify during a preliminary hearing.

Police had said at the time of the alleged Sept. 22 incident that Danz slammed a bedroom door on a woman's right arm and held it so she couldn't pull her arm out, causing injuries.

Danz was suspended without pay from his $101,000-a year post, pending outcome of the case.

There's no word on whether that status has been changed in light of the dismissal of charges.