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LATEST Frazee Man Sentenced in Domestic Assault Case
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Frazee Man Sentenced in Domestic Assault Case

A rural Frazee man was sentenced on two domestic assault counts in Becker County. A felony strangulation charge was dismissed under a plea agreement.

Leif John Carlson, 38, of rural Frazee, has been sentenced on two misdemeanor domestic assault counts in Becker County District Court.
Leif John Carlson, 38, of rural Frazee, has been sentenced on two misdemeanor domestic assault counts in Becker County District Court.

FRAZEE, Minn. (trfnews.i234.me) — Leif John Carlson, 38, of rural Frazee, has been sentenced on two misdemeanor domestic assault counts in Becker County District Court.

A felony charge of domestic assault by strangulation was dismissed as part of a plea agreement, according to court records.

Domestic Assault Reported at Frazee Campground

The case began June 4, when law enforcement received a report of a possible domestic assault at a Frazee campground.

A witness reported that Carlson had choked a woman before leaving the campground on foot.

According to court documents, the woman said an argument began after Carlson asked her to make him a cigarette.

When she refused, the disagreement escalated.

The woman told investigators that Carlson poured water on her while she lay on a mattress inside their tent.

As she began yelling, Carlson allegedly climbed on top of her and covered her nose and mouth.

She reported being unable to breathe for several seconds and becoming frightened.

During the struggle, the woman said she burned her arm while attempting to free herself.

She also alleged that Carlson threatened to burn down the tent before leaving the campground.

Officers Document Injuries

A reporting party arrived at the campground and called 911.

According to court records, an officer observed red marks on the woman’s face, neck, and chest.

The officer also documented a burn on her left arm and a cut on her leg.

A deputy later located Carlson walking in Frazee.

Carlson acknowledged arguing with the woman but denied placing his hands on her, according to court documents.

He told investigators that he repeatedly attempted to leave during the argument.

However, he said he returned when the woman began screaming loudly.

Leif John Carlson
Leif John Carlson

Judge Imposes Jail Time and Probation

In an amended sentencing order issued September 29, District Judge Michael Fritz imposed a 79-day jail sentence on the first count.

Carlson received credit for 79 days already served, satisfying that jail sentence.

On the second misdemeanor count, Carlson received a 90-day jail sentence, stayed for two years.

The court also ordered him to pay a $50 fine and $160 in court fees.

Strict Conditions During Two-Year Probation

Carlson was placed on supervised probation for two years.

During that period, he must follow several court-ordered conditions.

Those conditions include avoiding alcohol and drugs and complying with a no-contact order.

He must also complete cognitive skills training and a domestic abuse batterer’s intervention program.

Additionally, Carlson must undergo a comprehensive assessment as directed by the court.

The sentencing followed a plea agreement that resulted in dismissal of the original felony strangulation charge.

Information about Minnesota court proceedings and public court records is available through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.

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