West Seneca man convicted of sledgehammer incident, endangering children

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — The Erie County District Attorney’s Office announced today that a West Seneca man was found guilty in connection with disobeying an order of protection and attempting entry into a home through the use of a sledgehammer.

In September 2020, 43-year-old Jason M. Mitchell allegedly placed a victim in fear of physical injury by going to her house on several occasions in three days, knowingly and intentionally disobeying an order of protection. Officials said he also contacted the same victim through social media.

In October and November of 2020, it is alleged that Mitchell had another person contact the victim for him. In late November, he allegedly used a sledgehammer to break through her door while two children were inside the home. Her wrist was broken as a result.

Mitchell was found guilty of the following:

• three counts endangering the welfare of a child
• two counts, first-degree burglary
• three counts, second-degree criminal contempt
• two counts, first-degree criminal contempt

He faces a maximum of 29 years in prison when he is sentenced in June and is currently being held without bail.

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.