Becker County, MN – A rural Osage man has been sentenced in Becker County District Court after pleading guilty to felony third-degree assault in a violent pistol-whipping attack at a bonfire.
Court records show that on September 4, 2024, at approximately 8 a.m., a Becker County deputy responded to St. Joseph’s Emergency Room in Park Rapids, where a man reported being assaulted by Dareine John McCormick, 23.
The victim stated that around 2 a.m., he had been gathering firewood near County Road 123 when McCormick confronted him with a tan-colored pistol, demanding, “Give me everything.” A struggle ensued, and McCormick gained control, using the gun to strike the victim multiple times, causing severe facial lacerations.
The victim managed to escape in his vehicle, but as he fled, McCormick smashed the windshield with the pistol’s butt. He was also accused of stealing marijuana products from the victim’s car.
Sentencing Details
On January 22, 2025, Judge Michelle Lawson sentenced McCormick to:
✅ 21 months in prison (sentence stayed for five years)
✅ 150 days in jail (100 days credited)
✅ $1,000 fine plus $160 in court fees
✅ $650 restitution payment
McCormick is also required to:
🔹 Refrain from alcohol and drug use
🔹 Have no contact with the victim
🔹 Complete a comprehensive assessment and all aftercare recommendations
🔹 Undergo a full diagnostic evaluation and cognitive behavioral intervention
🔹 Comply with supervised probation for five years
For more updates on Minnesota crime cases, I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News