Man accused of smashing hotel computers pleads not guilty

A Columbia Falls man pleaded not guilty to felony criminal mischief in Flathead District Court on Aug. 31. He is accused of destroying hotel property and being combative with law enforcement before he was subdued by a stun gun.

According to court documents, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched at 7:30 a.m. on Aug. 11 to La Quinta Inn on a report of a disorderly man. Deputies reviewed surveillance footage that reportedly showed Taylor Jay Damm, 25, ripping two computer monitors off of the lobby desk and smashing them on the floor. He was also allegedly shown destroying a table and bookcase in the lobby then exiting the building where he picked up rocks from the pool area and threw them at the windows. Officers later found a dented door frame and scratches on windows and doors.

Deputies made contact with Damm near the property. Damm was reportedly combative and uncooperative with law enforcement from the start.

Officers took him into custody after he allegedly admitted to being at the hotel. Once inside the patrol car, Damm allegedly kicked the rear door continually and spit on it.

According to court documents, Damm had to be “tased” before he became compliant with officer requests court documents state.

A jury trial is set Jan. 16.

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