LEWISTON — A Rochester, New York, man accused of trying to strangle a woman and robbing her at a local motel last week had bail set at $50,000 cash in 8th District Court on Monday.

Howard Decarlis, 37, is being held at an Auburn jail on one count of aggravated assault and one count of robbery, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

He did not enter a plea Monday because felony cases must be presented to the Androscoggin County grand jury for consideration of charges.

If Decarlis makes bail, he must not use or possess alcohol, marijuana, or any illegal drugs, or use and possess any dangerous weapons or firearms. Decarlis is also ordered not to have any contact with the woman.

According to a police affidavit, Decarlis tried to strangle a 19-year-old woman while she slept at the Super 8 Motel on Lisbon Street on Monday, Jan. 21. He stole her cellphone and purse and attempted to lock her in his motel room, but she escaped and contacted police from the lobby.

Police said Decarlis drove off before police arrived.

Police discovered the stolen items while searching Decarlis’ rental car in a parking lot on Bartlett Street on Wednesday.

According to Lewiston Police Lt. David St. Pierre, Decarlis was arrested at the Acme Club on Park Street at 1:11 a.m. Saturday.

A prosecutor said Decarlis has convictions in New York.

Decarlis was returned to the Androscoggin County Jail in Auburn on Monday and is scheduled to appear in court April 19.

jbolduc@sunjournal.com

(Androscoggin County Jail photo)

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