Simple Assault charges in Pennsylvania require the government to prove you tried to harm someone physically. Here's what you need to know.A person commits the offense of strangulation if the person knowingly or intentionally impedes the breathing or circulation of the blood of another person. Assault as an Act of Domestic Violence. In Philadelphia, a person is charged with aggravated assault when they knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly cause serious physical injury. In this case, it is a third degree misdemeanor, carrying a penalty of up to one year in prison. Under prior law, an accusation of choking or strangulation with minimal injuries would have been charged as a simple assault or harassment offense. The lack of physical injury to a victim shall not be a defense in a prosecution under this section. (c)Affirmative defense. Wills, 873 A.2d 757 (Pa.