Legislator jailed in partner assault

The Daily Inter Lake

Rick Maedje, a state legislator and candidate for Lincoln County commissioner, was arrested Tuesday night at his home near Fortine on suspicion of partner assault.

The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office confirmed Wednesday that Maedje was arrested at his home, 900 Roberts Creek Road, and at about 1:20 a.m. was transported to the county jail in Libby.

The Sheriff's Office and County Attorney Bernie Cassidy had no further details about the incident.

Rep. Maedje, a Republican first elected to the Montana House in 2002, entered the commissioner race this year, challenging Marianne Roose, the incumbent representing the northeastern part of the county.

Maedje said earlier this year that he decided not to seek re-election to the Legislature "because I can't afford to continue serving."

Maedje remained in jail Wednesday afternoon.