Dispute over allegedly stolen camper lands 40-year-old in court

A dispute involving an allegedly stolen camper in late October netted a 40-year-old man felony and misdemeanor charges in Flathead County District Court.  

Prosecutors brought Donald Lester Church up on one felony count of assault with a weapon and a misdemeanor charge of criminal mischief following the Oct. 29 confrontation. He is expected to appear before Judge Robert Allison on Nov. 7 for his arraignment. 

The confrontation occurred after two people came across their allegedly stolen camper on property along Hungry Horse Boulevard, according to court documents. As the pair attempted to retrieve the camper, Church threw a large piece of wood through the front driver's side window of their truck, court documents said.  

One person allegedly suffered injuries to their hands and feet after getting struck by the wood. 

Church subsequently admitted to responding Flathead County Sheriff's Office deputies that he broke the victims' truck window, according to court documents. He allegedly said he lost his temper.  

Felony assault with a weapon is punishable by up to 20 years in Montana State Prison and a $50,000 fine. Misdemeanor criminal mischief carries a maximum penalty of six months in the county jail and a fine of up to $1,500. 

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or dperkins@dailyinterlake.com.