Kalispell man guilty of endangerment

A 34-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to two felony counts of criminal endangerment.

Zachariha Dawson was arrested March 29 after nearly striking several people in the parking lot of Paddy’s Touchdown Lounge.

Dawson had been kicked out of the bar earlier that night after being cut off and continuing to cause problems.

The bartender and a poker dealer were outside when they allegedly saw Dawson make sexual advances toward a young woman.

When those advances were denied, Dawson allegedly sped toward all three, who dove out of the way.

They told police if they hadn’t moved, they probably would have been killed.

Two adult victims from the accident were taken to the hospital by friends, where they were treated and released.

After fleeing the parking lot, Dawson ran a red light at the nearby intersection of Meridian Road and Idaho Street and was involved in an accident. He then fled the accident on foot before being found exiting a swampy area nearby.

When officers attempted to detain Dawson, he swung his arms up and over his head while handcuffed and attempted to run again, but was stopped.

In exchange for Dawson pleading guilty to the two charges, a third felony charge of assault with a weapon was dismissed.

Dawson now faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. His sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 21.