Charge dropped after suspect in post-game confrontation pays restitution

A Flathead County District Court judge dismissed last month a felony charge against a 41-year-old man for punching another person’s truck outside of a youth football game after he paid restitution.

Tyrell Eugene Darrington initially faced a single count of felony criminal mischief for the alleged Sept. 18, 2021, confrontation. He pleaded not guilty at his February 2023 arraignment before Judge Robert Allison.

Court documents alleged that Darrington confronted another individual outside of a youth sports complex following a game. When the victim tried to leave in his truck, Darrington allegedly jumped in front of it and punched the left front quarter panel, leaving a dent and causing an estimated $1,700 in damages, court documents said.

Officers identified Darrington with the help of the victim’s description. Darrington allegedly admitted to punching the vehicle.

At a Sept. 18 change of plea hearing before Allison, Darrington’s defense attorney, Liam Gallagher, indicated that the two sides had reached a deal. The charges would be dismissed upon the victim’s receipt of restitution from Darrington, according to court records.

Deputy County Attorney John Donovan filed a motion to dismiss on Sept. 22, writing that Darrington had delivered a check covering the restitution. Allison ordered the case dismissed with prejudice that same day.

News Editor Derrick Perkins can be reached at 758-4430 or dperkins@dailyinterlake.com.