Judge orders treatment for suspect in Trout Creek shooting

A Trout Creek man was committed to the Montana State Hospital in Warm Springs for treatment on Tuesday until he is fit to proceed with charges. West Flockerzi is charged with attempted arson, assault with a weapon, assault on a peace office and two counts of criminal endangerment.

In 20th District Judicial Court on Tuesday, Judge James Manley said Flockerzi is not to proceed on the charges at this time. Last November, Flockerzi allegedly went to the Lakeside Resort in Trout Creek, pulled out a gun and advised that he was going to burn the place down. He then is charged with fleeing and firing shots into a residence on Larch Street. Flockerzi was eventually arrested two days later. The Sanders County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by neighboring agencies, including the Missoula Count Swat Team. No one was injured in the incident.

“Mr. Flockerzi, I hope this treatment is effective and that you get better so this matter can be resolved,” Judge Manley said Tuesday. Flockerzi has previously pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Also Tuesday, Judge Manley set a sentencing date of July 9 for Andrew Williams, who pleaded guilty to burglary. Williams was accused of stealing items including ammunition, firearms, a guitar and television from a Plains residence. Williams had previously helped the owner on the property. The owner was gone from Oct. 11, 2016, to Nov. 6, 2016, when the burglary took place.