NORWICH – Two men accused of robbery, rape and assault are taking separate roads through the justice system, one heading to trial the other leaning towards a plea bargain.

Stephen R. Ohl, 24, of Cunningham Lawrence Road in Sherburne, and Jonathan “Joe” Elwood, 29, of Ashcraft Road in Norwich, are charged with predatory sexual assault (Class A-II felony), first degree burglary (Class B felony), first degree rape (Class B felony), first degree robbery (Class B felony), first degree criminal sexual act (Class B felony), first degree criminal use of a firearm (Class B felony) and petit larceny.

Elwood was indicted on his charges by the grand jury and pleaded not guilty when he last appeared in court April 16.

Elwood’s alleged co-conspirator Ohl waived his right to a grand jury indictment and will be prosecuted on his superior court information. This spares the District Attorney’s Office from presenting its case to the grand jury and may indicate a desire to plea bargain. If so, Ohl could be asked to testify against Elwood.

The Chenango County Sheriff’s Office said the men were armed with a shotgun during the home invasion burglary at State Highway 12B in the Town of Sherburne. The attack happened Monday, Dec. 4 at approximately 11:30 p.m. when the two suspects entered the home through physical force and attacked the property owner.