Man facing assault, kidnapping charges

Jason Tad Pennington, 39, has been charged with felony kidnapping and felony assault with a weapon.

Pennington is being held at the Flathead County Detention Center. Bail has been set at $75,000.

According to court documents, a Flathead County sheriff’s deputy responded on Idaho Street in Kalispell on June 28 and spoke with a woman who said Pennington was at her house, got angry, and “threatened to kill her and everyone around.”

Pennington allegedly bound her wrists and ankles with zip ties, took her vehicle and drove them into town, according to the woman’s statement. Pennington reportedly threatened to shoot her in the back if she tried to leave.

Pennington also grabbed her by the throat, strangling her to where she couldn’t breath and pointed a gun at her head, according to court documents.

Pennington eventually removed the zip ties by cutting and burning them. The deputy observed injuries on the woman’s wrist.

On June 30, officers found Pennington at the woman’s house. He was under a counter with a large knife next to him. Pennington was arrested and taken to the Flathead County Detention Center where he reportedly attempted to flee once a deputy opened the patrol car door.

When he was restrained by officers, Pennington said he put zip ties on the woman and used a lighter to heat up the plastic and remove them, according to court documents.

If convicted of felony kidnapping, Pennington could face two to 10 years in state prison with a fine of up to $50,000. The penalty for felony assault with a weapon is a maximum 20-year state prison term and up to a $50,000 fine.

Arraignment has been set for 9 a.m. July 21.

Hilary Matheson is a reporter for The Daily Inter Lake. She may be reached at 758-4431 or hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.