Arrest made after Sword Fight in Rural Home

On early Tuesday morning, July 12, 2011, Deputies responded to a rural Beltrami County residence to investigate a complaint of an assault with weapons involved at this home. As officers were driving to the scene it was reported that swords were being used in the assault. After arriving in the driveway, Deputies located an intoxicated individual attempting to leave the residence on a bicycle. The suspect was stopped and as deputies began their investigation they learned the suspect had been drinking with the occupant of the residence when suddenly the suspect attacked the homeowner with a sword. The homeowner also grabbed a sword to defend himself and the two engaged in a sword fight.

A ten year old child who was also present and witnessed the entire event was injured when he was struck in the elbow by the suspect’s sword. The suspect was booked into the jail on charges of 2nd degree assault, 4th degree assault, felony child abuse, and gross misdemeanor obstructing legal process.

The ten year old was treated at North Country Regional Hospital for his injuries and released. The Complainant received minor injuries that did not require hospitalization. The case will be presented for review by the Beltrami County Attorney’s Office.