52 year-old Joel Golder appeared in Missoula justice Court on Monday afternoon charged with felony assault with a weapon and misdemeanor partner or family member assault after allegedly beating his girlfriend and threatening her with a handgun.

According to court documents (SEE BELOW) Golder allegedly pointed a gun at both his mother and the victim at a residence in the 2100 block of South Reserve. According to the victim, she and Golder were arguing over infidelities in their relationship when he grabbed a handgun and pointed it at her forehead. He then moved the handgun to his right and discharged the firearm just inches from her ear.

Court documents say he also struck Jane Doe with his fists at least three times. The victim then fled the house and went to Community Medical Center for treatment of her injuries.

According to the victim's own parole officer, who was in the courtroom for Golder's appearance via video from the Missoula County Jail, Golder had consumed a great deal of alcohol prior to the assault.

Deputy Missoula County Attorney Mac Bloom asked Judge Marie Anderson for $50,000 bail.

"Given the serious nature of these offenses, we are requesting a high bail," Bloom said. "If he does bond out, we ask that he have no contact with the victim, Jane Doe, and be placed on GPS and SAP (Sobriety Accountability Program).

Golder asked Judge Anderson for a lower bail so he could continue to run his business, Full House Furniture. Anderson set bail at $25,000. Golder's next court appearance will be August 11.

 

 

 

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