Pocono News Section

Former Cop Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Wife and Step-Son

Former Cop Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Wife and Step-Son - Friday, December 5, 2008 at 4:10PM EST

WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE COUNTY -- David Turkos was a part-time Dupont police officer in March when his wife called police to stay he assaulted her and kicked her son. Friday, he pleaded guilty to simple assault and harassment.

In an exclusive interview with Turkos in court at Penn Place Friday, he apologized, saying, "I put my own ambitions ahead of my family. Could I have been a better husband? Of course. Could I have been a better friend? Of course. I take responsibility in that fact."

But Turkos's soon-to-be ex-wife, Donna, doesn't believe he's truly remorseful. She says she hopes the publicity of this case will help women in abusive relationships get out and get help. Donna's arm was broken, and her now 12-year-old son was kicked in the stomach -- both by Turkos.

Turkos lost his job with the police department after the incident.

"I lost my job, and that's fine," said Turkos. "But I lost my family, and I have to live with that."

Turkos was sentenced to six months probation and has to pay fines totaling about $3,000.

The victims have a protection from abuse order against him.