Haflich arraigned on felony assault charge

Joseph Alton Haflich, 43, of Libby was arraigned on a felony third offense partner or family member assault, causing bodily injury charge in district court Oct. 21.

Authorities arrested Haflich earlier in the month after a patient at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center contacted officials to report an assault, according to court documents. Deputy Luke Hauke of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office met with the alleged victim in the early morning hours of Oct. 5.

In an affidavit, Hauke wrote that the woman had visible injuries to her forehead, and arm and hands. She said she was asleep at home when Haflich entered, intoxicated and yelling at her for not having food in the house.

The victim said Haflich began to hit her in the head and grabbed her by the hair to pull her from bed. She tried to cover her head with a pillow, according to court documents, as he continued to hit and kick her.

He used abusive language throughout, the victim told Hauke.

Hauke wrote that the victim was crying and emotional throughout the conversation. She told him that Haflich “threatens, intimidates, or assaults her” on a nearly daily basis.

Haflich denied the allegations, according to Hauke. A check of Haflich’s criminal record turned up two prior convictions for partner or family member assault, Hauke wrote. It also showed a lengthy list of previous allegations, including assault and assault on a peace officer, according to court documents.

He was arrested about 10:52 a.m. in his home that same day.