Blackfoot, Idaho — An Idaho man is facing a felony charge after authorities say an argument over a ride home from the hospital escalated into a violent domestic incident involving a pair of nunchucks.
According to investigators, 67-year-old Melvin Blackburn was arrested after police responded to a 911 call reporting an assault at a residence in Blackfoot on June 21.
The case remains pending, and the allegations outlined by investigators have not been proven in court.
Argument Began After Hospital Visit, Police Say
According to court documents cited by local reports, Blackburn told investigators he had gone to a hospital the previous night after allegedly being punched in the face during an earlier dispute with the woman he lived with.
After receiving medical treatment, Blackburn said he walked home because the woman refused to pick him up.
Police said Blackburn admitted the two began arguing shortly after he arrived back at the residence. Investigators allege the confrontation quickly escalated.
According to the woman, Blackburn picked up a pair of nunchucks during the argument and began striking her with the martial arts weapon.
Woman Reported Visible Injuries
The woman called 911 following the incident, prompting officers to respond to the home. Police reported finding bruises on her arm and back that were consistent with her account of the altercation.
According to investigators, the woman said Blackburn was sitting on a stool when he started swinging the nunchucks toward her.
She told officers she knocked him off the stool, managed to escape the confrontation, and immediately contacted law enforcement.
Her statement forms part of the evidence outlined in the criminal complaint.
Suspect Claims He Acted in Self-Defense
Blackburn provided a different version of events when questioned by investigators.
According to police, he claimed he used the nunchucks only after the woman attacked him upon his return from the hospital.
He reportedly acknowledged swinging the weapon but denied actually striking her.
Investigators noted, however, that Blackburn allegedly changed portions of his account several times during questioning.
Police also reported that, despite Blackburn’s claim that he had been assaulted, officers did not observe injuries that would indicate he had recently been attacked during the confrontation.
Authorities said Blackburn also claimed the woman was upset because he sought medical treatment at the hospital.
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Felony Charge Filed
Following the investigation, officers arrested Blackburn on a charge of felony aggravated battery with a deadly weapon enhancement.
Under Idaho law, the enhancement could significantly increase the potential penalties if he is convicted. According to local reports, Blackburn could face up to 30 years in prison if found guilty.
The criminal case will now proceed through the court system, where prosecutors must prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt.
As with all criminal cases, Blackburn is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
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