POLK COUNTY, MN (trfnews.i234.me) – Michael Joseph Ward, a 25-year-old resident of Crookston, faced sentencing on Tuesday, April 2, for felony threats of violence.
1. Guilty Plea and Dismissed Charges:
Ward had previously pleaded guilty to the crime in January. However, his second-degree assault charge with a dangerous weapon was dismissed during the legal proceedings.
2. Incident at Walmart:
The charges stemmed from an incident at the local Walmart, where Ward allegedly pulled a knife on a customer. Court documents revealed Ward’s claim that he felt threatened by the behavior of customers at the time.
3. Sentence and Conditions:
Judge’s ruling sentenced Ward to 90 days, with credit for six days already served. He may complete the remaining term under electronic home monitoring, work release, or in custody at the Northwest Regional Correctional Center. Additionally, Ward is mandated to fulfill 40 hours of community work service and will be under supervised probation for five years. Successful completion of probation could lead to the reduction of his felony conviction to a misdemeanor.
Ward’s case highlights the legal consequences of threatening behavior, serving as a reminder of the importance of community safety and accountability.