Domestic Violence Arrest in Horseheads Involves Lawn Mower Chase and Multiple Charges
Late-night call leads to serious charges and jail time for 39-year-old man in Chemung County
On the night of June 10, 2025, what started as a domestic dispute quickly escalated into a bizarre and dangerous situation in the town of Horseheads, located in Chemung County, New York.
State Troopers responded to a home around 10:34 p.m. after receiving a report of a domestic violence incident. When they arrived, they didn’t find a quiet scene—they found 39-year-old Matthew Chorney riding a 2016 John Deere lawn mower in the roadway outside the residence.
According to police, Chorney refused to get off the mower, even after being given multiple clear commands. He resisted arrest when Troopers tried to detain him.
Inside the Home: Violence and Property Damage
The situation was just as disturbing inside the home. Troopers say that Chorney had caused damage throughout the house, threatened a female family member, and even physically restrained her—blocking her from leaving a room. This type of behavior not only put her in immediate danger but also contributed to several criminal charges.
Chorney allegedly threw household items, adding to the chaos and destruction in the residence.
Multiple Felony and Misdemeanor Charges
As a result of the incident, Chorney now faces a long list of charges, including three felonies:
-
Unlawful Imprisonment in the First Degree (Class E Felony)
-
Aggravated Family Offense (Class E Felony)
-
Aggravated Unlicensed Operation of a Motor Vehicle in the First Degree (Class E Felony)
He was also charged with several misdemeanors, including:
-
Three counts of Criminal Mischief in the Fourth Degree
-
Reckless Endangerment in the Second Degree
-
Resisting Arrest
-
Obstructing Governmental Administration in the Second Degree
-
Driving While Ability Impaired
-
Multiple traffic violations
Following his arrest, Chorney was arraigned in the Town of Horseheads Court and sent to the Chemung County Jail on $1,000 cash bail or $2,000 bond. A full stay-away order of protection has been issued to help keep the victim safe.
He is due back in court on June 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
Why This Matters
Domestic violence continues to be a major public safety issue across New York State and the nation. According to the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, one in four women in the U.S. experience severe intimate partner physical violence in their lifetime.
This case is yet another reminder of the need for strong community awareness, early intervention, and support systems for victims. If you or someone you know is facing domestic abuse, help is available 24/7 through the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline at 1-800-942-6906.
