by Sarah Hull

Reporter

Northern Light Region

A Roseau man is facing a felony assault charge after reportedly knocking  a man unconscious  at a residence in rural Lake of the Woods County.

According to the incident report, at approximately 7:54 p.m. on April 8, two officers responded to an assault that was reported. 

After arriving, the officers spoke with the victim, the victim’s fiancé and the spouse of the defendant, who was identified as Jason Paul Parenteau, 46, of Roseau. 

The victim stated that Parenteau and his spouse were arguing, and Parenteau was asked to leave the residence. The victim accompanied him to his vehicle, where they started having a discussion about relationships. It was during this discussion that the defendant struck the victim with a closed fist, rendering him unconscious. 

The victim’s fiancé then came outside and assisted the victim to his feet. Parenteau then punched the victim again, with the victim’s head striking the bumper of a vehicle as he fell to the ground.

Parenteau admitted to punching the victim after he brought up issues regarding one of Parenteau’s children, but claimed it was in self-defense, as he believed the victim was “coming at him.” He also admitted to hitting him a second time after he was helped to his feet. 

The assault resulted in a broken jaw and a fractured fibula, as well as a minor traumatic brain injury. 

Parenteau was charged with third degree assault causing substantial bodily harm, which carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and/or a $10,000 fine. 

He will make his first appearance in the Lake of the Woods County Court on August 3.