Man denies strangling, knife wielding

A 19-year-old man pleaded not guilty to felony criminal endangerment and felony assault with a weapon Thursday after allegedly assaulting and threatening a family member on Aug. 22.

Authorities claim in court documents that Colin Kristopher Hardwick allegedly punched a woman in the arm, called her names and slapped her face before getting a knife and coming at the woman three times. The victim allegedly told police that she “was certain” Hardwick was going to stab her. Hardwick then allegedly threatened to kill the woman.

He allegedly tried to strangle the victim until she hit him in the head with a TV remote controller. He left the scene after another person entered the home.

A Kalispell Police officer noted a bruise on the victim’s arm and a black eye. The woman told the officer that she had a headache and had trouble hearing in one ear after the incident.

Hardwick allegedly admitted he had been in an altercation with the victim, according to court documents.

If convicted of both charges, Hardwick could face a prison term up to 30 years and a maximum fine of $100,000.

A trial was set for Jan. 17.

Megan Strickland is a reporter for The Daily Inter Lake. She may be reached at 758-4459 or mstrickland@dailyinterlake.com.