Strangulation, Assault Charges Filed in McKean County
PORT ALLEGANY, Pa. — A Port Allegany man is facing multiple charges, including strangulation and simple assault, after an incident on February 18, 2026. Michael Ryan Houghtaling, 32, was arrested by Lewis Run PSP and taken to McKean County Prison, where he is being held on $25,000 monetary bail.
According to court records, Houghtaling is charged with one count of strangulation, a second-degree felony, in violation of 18 Pa.C.S. § 2718(a)(1); one count of simple assault, a first-degree misdemeanor, in violation of 18 Pa.C.S. § 2701(a)(3); and one count of harassment, a third-degree misdemeanor, in violation of 18 Pa.C.S. § 2709(a)(1). The charges stem from an incident that occurred on February 18, 2026, in Liberty Township, McKean County.
Houghtaling’s preliminary arraignment was held on February 19, 2026, before Magisterial District Judge William K. Todd, and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 26, 2026, at 8:30 am. The case is currently active and awaiting preliminary hearing.
The defendant has been advised of his right to apply for assignment of counsel, but has not requested a public defender. Houghtaling has been fingerprinted as part of the booking process.
The McKean County District Attorney’s Office is representing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in this case. The district attorney’s office is located at the McKean County Courthouse, 500 West Main Street, Smethport, PA 16749.
Houghtaling is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The prosecuting authority, the McKean County District Attorney’s Office, will proceed with the case in accordance with Pennsylvania law and the rules of criminal procedure.
This article was generated based on publicly available court docket information. While we strive for accuracy, the content may contain errors or omissions. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For official court records and legal guidance, please consult the appropriate court or legal professional.
