Split verdict in Sanders County trial

After a three-day jury trial last week, a panel of jurors found Joshua Michael Dodson not guilty of two felony counts of assault with a weapon and strangulation of a partner or family member, but found Dodson guilty of a felony count of criminal endangerment and one misdemeanor count of partner or family member assault, 1st offense.

Dodson had stood accused of an altercation with a female partner during an argument that allegedly led to Dodson physically assaulting her and threatening to burn down the camper she lived in. Judge Deborah Kim Christopher set sentencing for the guilty counts on April 16, with Dodson being remanded to the Sanders County Jail pending sentencing.

After the trial, Judge Christopher remarked that she was impressed with how civilly all the parties conducted themselves throughout the length of the trial, which is a rarity in today’s world. In addition, she shared about how the jurors took the time after being dismissed to shake the hands of the prosecution, defense counsel, and the defendant. Judge Christopher was full of praise for the citizens of Sanders County and stated how proud she is to be able to serve them.