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Police: Man Sent Vulgar, Harassing Greeting Cards To Widower & Boy Next Door

SCOTT TOWNSHIP (KDKA) -- A Scott Township man is in jail, facing serious charges for allegedly sending vulgar greeting cards to his next door neighbor.

Richard Porchiran, 61, is being held in the Allegheny County Jail. His arrest comes after a year-long investigation.

The victim, Porchiran's neighbor, says he's relieved that the man who's allegedly been harassing him and his young son by sending derogatory messages about his deceased wife has been arrested.

Scott Township police say Porchiran is responsible for sending vulgar greeting cards and messages to his neighbor, after a dispute about a building permit.

"Over the course of the year, we have at least six reports with probably eight to nine cards," said Sgt. Jeff Skees, of the Scott Township Police Department.

Police say the cards, with foul language printed in them, were addressed to the victim and his 6-year-old son. They contained statements about the victim's wife who died a few years ago.

She had a brain aneurysm after giving birth to her son.

Police say the cards had labels with vulgar messages attached to them. There were even messages sent with vulgar language printed on the victim's deceased wife's obituary and memorial.

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Police were able to track the suspect to the Dollar Tree store in Great Southern Shopping Center, where he was seen purchasing some of the cards.

"He [the victim] had a birthday party for his son, and he received the exact same card, and we were able to match that card to a store after about four different days of going and reviewing video," explained Sgt. Skees.

When officers searched Porchiran's home, they say they found more cards and labels already printed with vulgar messages. They also found labels printed with the victim's address.

Police say Porchiran could face more charges. Police have evidence that he may be responsible for throwing nails in another neighbor's yard.

Porchiran has a preliminary hearing on the stalking and harassment charges next week.

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