Pennington County, MN (trfnews.i234.me) Benjamin Gerald Owen, a 42-year-old resident of Thief River Falls, has been charged with felony domestic assault following an incident earlier this month. The charges stem from an alleged assault on his mother in rural Pennington County.
According to the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call on March 10 at the Sanford Medical Center Emergency Room. The victim reported suffering bruising to her face and right arm, attributing the injuries to her son grabbing her during a recent altercation. She mentioned that Owen had recently moved in with her and had been using drugs again.
The victim recounted several incidents leading up to the assault:
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March 5: Owen allegedly flicked his mother in the head and slapped her in the face.
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March 6: He is said to have shoved her while she was sorting laundry, causing her to fall. Upon her attempt to rise, he allegedly shoved her again, resulting in additional injuries.
Following these reports, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Owen’s residence. Upon entry, Owen was found inside but did not open the door. A deputy forcibly entered, leading to Owen’s arrest.
This incident is particularly concerning as Owen has prior domestic violence offenses within the past decade. Felony domestic assault by strangulation is a serious charge in Minnesota, carrying significant legal consequences, including potential imprisonment and fines. Interfering with a 911 call is also considered a gross misdemeanor, underscoring the state’s commitment to ensuring unobstructed emergency assistance.
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I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.