A 28-year-old St Joseph man faces a misdemeanor charge of 3rd Degree Assault after allegedly attacking the victim with his fists and a chainsaw.

In a court affidavit, police cite witness reports indicating that on November 16, 28-year-old Billy Austin Shaiffer assaulted his victim “by kicking him, punching him, and then striking him in the head with a chainsaw.”

The victim was not seriously hurt, and did not seek medical attention.

 

Shaiffer is being held under $7,500 bond awaiting his first court appearance November 21.

Officials say Mr Shaiffer has prior arrests for assault, property damage, trespassing and obstruction. Police also assert that he has at least seven prior arrests for failure to appear warrants.