Geneva man sentenced for kidnapping woman at gunpoint

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Stephen T. Pekarski, a 32-year-old man from Geneva, Ohio, was sentenced to 10 to 12 years in prison for kidnapping his 32-year-old girlfriend at gunpoint and assaulting her with the firearm while driving towards Geneva. The incident occurred on June 10 in Perry Township, where Pekarski forced the woman into his vehicle and struck her with the gun before firing a round through the roof of the truck. The woman was able to escape and seek help from police, leading to Pekarski's arrest shortly after.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious and dangerous nature of domestic violence incidents involving firearms, which pose a significant threat to public safety. The sentencing sends a strong message that such criminal acts will be met with substantial prison time.

The details

Pekarski pleaded guilty on January 27 to one count of first-degree felony kidnapping and one count of felonious assault, along with firearm specifications. Lake County Common Pleas Judge Vincent A. Culotta imposed the 10 to 12 year sentence on Monday. During the incident, Pekarski went to his girlfriend's home in Perry Township, forced her into his vehicle at gunpoint, and then struck her with the gun while driving towards Geneva. He also fired a round through the roof of the vehicle before the woman was able to escape and contact the police.

• On June 10, the incident occurred in Perry Township.
• On January 27, Pekarski pleaded guilty.
• On February 23, Pekarski was sentenced to 10 to 12 years in prison.

What’s next

The judge's sentencing decision will be reviewed as part of the standard appeals process.