Kalispell man denies choking woman

A Kalispell man has denied charges that he brutally choked a woman during an argument.

Charles George Burkett, 36, faces two felonies for criminal endangerment and partner or family member assault. He has also been charged with misdemeanor attempt of criminal destruction or tampering with a communication device.

He pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Kalispell police responded to an assault report on June 10. According to court documents, an argument had escalated and became physical.

The woman told police that she told Burkett to leave the house but he refused. Burkett allegedly turned on the woman, throwing her to the floor. He then put his arm around her neck and pinned her to the wall, according to the woman’s account.

The woman said she might have lost consciousness and that the choking only stopped when a child walked into the room.

The misdemeanor charge stemmed from the allegation that Burkett took the woman’s phone and threw it in an attempt to break it.

Burkett has two previous convictions for partner or family member assault, according to court documents.

He remains in the Flathead County Detention Center on $50,000 bail. His next court hearing is scheduled for Aug. 26.

Reporter Matt Hudson may be reached at 758-4459 or by email at mhudson@dailyinterlake.com.