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SLAYTON — A Slayton resident has been charged with a felony count of domestic assault, felony fifth-degree assault, and a misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct.
Slayton Police responded to a report of domestic assault at a residence on Dec. 1. According to the criminal complaint, the reporting party told officers that Luke Wolfswinkel, 38, had gotten into a fight with a relative, the victim.
When an officer arrived, he observed the victim on the ground with injuries. The victim complained of a broken hand and pain in his right eye. An ambulance was dispatched and additional law enforcement arrived on the scene as well.
The reporting party stated that Wolfswinkel had been staying at the residence while out on bond and that he had been drinking that day and was highly intoxicated.
According to the complaint, Wolfswinkel had threatened the reporting party and the victim multiple times over the past few days. A fight had broken out between Wolfswinkel and the victim, and shortly before the reporting party had called 911, Wolfswinkel started hitting the victim.
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The reporting party stated that Wolfswinkel left the house on his bike and that he had blood on his face.
After searching the house for Wolfswinkel, the officer left, advising that the residents lock their doors and not open them if Wolfswinkel came back.
Shortly after, Wolfswinkel returned to the residence and officers reconvened there. Wolfswinkel reportedly told officers that nothing had happened, though he appeared bloody and had a cut to his palm. Wolfswinkel maintained that no assault had taken place and that he’d cut his hand falling off his bike.
According to the complaint, Wolfswinkel became agitated and struggled to stay standing. It was noted in the complaint that he smelled strongly of alcohol.
He was arrested and transported to the Lyon County Jail.
A review of Wolfswinkel’s criminal history showed multiple assault and domestic assault convictions since 2013. Additionally, Wolfswinkel was released from the Blue Earth County Jail following Nov. 23 charges of gross misdemeanor assault and obstruction of a peace officer. He had posted bond and agreed to abide by conditions that included abstention from the use of alcohol and remaining law-abiding.
Bail for this latest offense was set at $20,000, with conditions. Wolfswinkel is scheduled to make his initial appearance in Murray County courts on Dec. 16.
If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine for each of the felony assault charges. The maximum sentence for disorderly conduct is 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
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Note: This article was written based on information reported by local law enforcement agencies. The Globe reminds readers that all individuals are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Southwest Crisis Center is available in our community to support and empower survivors of sexual and domestic violence. For questions about services or how you can help, contact the Southwest Crisis Center at 1-800-376-4311 or mnswcc.org .
