An Allegheny County Judge on Wednesday acquitted a Penn Hills Democratic committeeman accused of attacking and harassing a Lawrenceville bar owner.

Pittsburgh police in 2011 charged Byron Tielsch, 73, with aggravated assault, attempted extortion, conspiracy, stalking and other crimes. Prosecutors withdrew four charges, and Judge Kevin Sasinoski acquitted Tielsch on charges of harassment and disorderly conduct during a non-jury trial.

Police charged Tielsch with harassing David Santa, of Alchemy N' Ale on Butler Street, by leaving a notice on his door accusing him of being a drug dealer, and also attacking him with a two-by-four.

“It was all lies and it was proven in court now,” Tielsch said. “I feel a lot better. I've been through hell for two years.”

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