Thief River Falls: Subway Worker Punched, Police Say

Thief River Falls (trfnews.i234.me) — Police responded to a reported assault at a Subway restaurant in Thief River Falls. The call was reported at 8:19 p.m. on Jan. 3, according to a citation.

Michael Caden Lansford, 23, of Land O’Lakes, Florida, has been cited for fifth-degree assault. Police say he punched an employee during a dispute over a sandwich.

What the report says

According to the citation, Lansford became angry about how his sandwich was made. Police say he then punched the employee.

The report summary did not list the employee’s name. It did not describe any injuries. It also did not say if anyone was taken to a hospital.

The summary did not state whether anyone else was involved. It also did not list whether an arrest happened at the scene.

Where it happened

The citation lists the location as Subway in Thief River Falls. Subway lists a local restaurant at 201 W. Third Street.

Charge listed

Fifth-degree assault is defined in Minnesota law. The statute includes intentionally inflicting, or trying to inflict, bodily harm. It also includes causing fear of immediate harm.

The definition is listed under Minnesota Statute 609.224. The statute lists the offense as a misdemeanor.

A citation is not a conviction. A charge is an allegation until the court process ends.

Court records and resources

Minnesota trial court case summaries may appear on the state’s online system, MCRO. The Minnesota Judicial Branch also explains ways to access case records.

Anyone who needs help after a crime can reach support services. Minnesota’s Department of Public Safety lists the 24-hour Crime Victim Support Line.

The state says the hotline is 866-385-2699. Text support is also listed by the state.

Workplace violence can affect service workers, including restaurant staff. OSHA has guidance on workplace violence risks and prevention steps. That information is posted here: OSHA workplace violence overview.

Minnesota also shares prevention resources through MNOSHA’s Workplace Safety and Health Consultation. The state resource page is here: MNOSHA workplace violence prevention.

I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.