Accused of punching, pistol-whipping, and warning another man never to attack his dad again, Logan James Savage, 43, pleaded not guilty to a felony assault charge Monday.
Savage also got out of jail on a $20,000 unsecured bond.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Elmore argued against Savage's release.
There are individuals in the community who are afraid of the defendant based on the charged conduct, said Elmore in a hearing in the U.S. District Court for Wyoming in Lander.
Savage, of Arapahoe, Wyoming, is accused of entering a mans home and punching the man with his fist, Elmore said. The U.S. Attorneys office charged him with one count of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to do bodily harm, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $250,000 in fines.
He brandished a pistol and struck him in the head several times with it, Elmore continued. He forced the victim to kiss the pistol then threatened to kill him if he ever assaulted his father again or told law enforcement.
"The victim," Elmore said, "showed wounds consistent with being beaten with a pistol."
Savage's defense attorney Bailey Lazzari countered, saying Savage is no danger to the community, has strong ties to the community and has fully complied with the terms of his bond in a separate case in Wind River Tribal Court.
Other than the charges alleged in this case, Lazzari said theres nothing suggesting that Savage is dangerous. She also said he expects to return to full-time employment.
Savage later clarified that he has a bachelor's degree and is close to having his masters degree, and works in finance.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Teresa McKee granted Savage's release by unsecured bond. She did so with a bit of hesitation, said the judge.
McKee forbade Savage from contacting potential witnesses in the case. She also forbade him from accessing alcohol, drugs or firearms, and from leaving Wyoming without permission. She told Savage to remain living at his home in Arapahoe and to remain employed.
"Savage may not have firearms or large knives at his home, even if they belong to other people," said McKee.
"That sounds straightforward," said Savage, who spoke clearly throughout the hearing. "Thank you."
