JEFFERSON CITY, MISSOURI (December 21, 2017) – Following a four-day jury trial, a Cole County jury has found Brett Michael Bergman guilty of domestic assault in the first degree and armed criminal action. Judge Jon Beetem presided over the case.
In the early morning hours of June 28, 2015, Cole County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a domestic disturbance in Russellville, Missouri. Upon arrival, deputies found a female victim with serious injuries. At the scene, the deputies also made contact with Bergman, who had injuries to his hand and told officers that he and the victim had been in fight.
Assistant Prosecuting Attorneys Kristin Mengwasser and Tristin M. Estep tried the case for the State. The attorneys are thankful for the jury’s patience and attentiveness as they listened to the evidence and were able to reach a just verdict holding the defendant accountable for his actions. The jury’s verdict sends a strong message that this kind of crime in our community will not be tolerated. The attorneys also commend the victim for her strength and patience in bringing this case to trial.
For domestic assault in the first degree, Bergman could be sentenced to a minimum of ten years and up to life in prison. Armed Criminal Action is an unclassified felony for which the defendant must serve three years in prison before being eligible for probation or parole. His sentencing is set for February 27, 2018.
