Kalispell man pleads not guilty to gun charge

A Kalispell man pleaded not guilty in Flathead District Court on Thursday to felony assault with a weapon.

Thomas James “T.J.” Sorkness, 22, is alleged to have pointed a loaded gun at someone else on July 6.

According to court documents, police responded to a report of a physical disturbance involving a weapon at a Ninth Avenue West residence in Kalispell.

Several witnesses said Sorkness entered the home looking for a woman who was not present. Sorkness allegedly held a handgun with another gun tucked in the waistband of his pants. Sorkness reportedly pointed the handgun directly at the victim when the victim confronted him and asked him to leave.

Sorkness then allegedly left the home, fired a shot in the air and fled the area on foot, according to court documents. Officers located Sorkness’ vehicle and searched the area.

More than an hour later, an officer recognized a shirtless man, who appeared from behind a fence, as Sorkness. Sorkness purportedly tried to elude police by running down First Street West and attempting to jump over a fence when police caught him.

If convicted, he faces a maximum term of 20 years in Montana State Prison and a maximum fine of $50,000.

A jury trial is set to being Oct. 11.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.