East Grand Forks Man Charged in Knife Threat Case

EAST GRAND FORKS (trfnews.i234.me) — Michael John Fontaine faces two charges following an alleged dispute at an apartment complex.

Prosecutors charged Fontaine with felony threats of violence. He also faces misdemeanor criminal damage to property.

The case was filed in Polk County District Court. The court file number is 60-CR-26-865.

Threats Alleged During Dispute

The complaint says the dispute began on June 14, 2026. Fontaine and another man had reportedly been in a physical fight.

Fontaine later returned while several people were outside the apartments. He allegedly threatened to kill the man.

He also allegedly threatened to cut the man with a knife. The man told police he feared for his safety.

Two witnesses reportedly confirmed hearing Fontaine make verbal threats. Their names were shortened in the public complaint.

The man also reported damage to his three-wheeled bicycle. He said Fontaine pushed the bicycle toward its earlier location.

The next morning, the man found two bicycle tires slashed. He also reported a missing screwdriver.

The complaint lists the estimated property damage at about $200. Police received the report on June 15, 2026.

Fontaine told investigators the other man had threatened him with a screwdriver. Witnesses reportedly denied seeing that happen.

The felony charge falls under Minnesota Statute 609.713.

A conviction may bring up to five years in prison. It may also bring a fine up to $10,000.

The property charge falls under Minnesota Statute 609.595.

The complaint lists a possible 90-day jail sentence. It also lists a fine up to $1,000.

Case information may be available through Minnesota Court Records Online.

The charges are allegations. Fontaine is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.