Walcott, N.D. Man Charged with Felony Assault on Woman in Moorhead

Authorities say the suspect struck the victim with a metal bar and slapped her in separate incidents over four days.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 2:10am

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A 28-year-old man from Walcott, North Dakota has been charged with second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of felony domestic assault after allegedly attacking a woman in Moorhead, Minnesota on two separate occasions over the span of four days. The victim suffered significant bruising to her face and arm from the incidents.

Why it matters

Domestic violence is an ongoing issue that often goes unreported, and this case highlights the need for stronger protections and support for victims. The suspect's prior criminal record also raises questions about the effectiveness of the justice system in preventing repeat offenses.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, the first incident occurred on March 7 when the suspect, Chance Lee DeCoteau, allegedly hit the victim in the face with a metal bar attached to a bicycle seat, causing significant bruising. Four days later on March 11, DeCoteau is accused of slapping the victim again. The victim reported both incidents to law enforcement after seeking medical treatment.

  • The first incident occurred on March 7.
  • The second incident occurred on March 11.
  • DeCoteau was charged on March 12.

The players

Chance Lee DeCoteau

A 28-year-old man from Walcott, North Dakota who has been charged with second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and two counts of felony domestic assault.

The Victim

A woman who was allegedly assaulted by DeCoteau in two separate incidents in Moorhead, Minnesota, suffering significant bruising to her face and arm.

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What’s next

DeCoteau is currently in custody and is being held pending further court proceedings. The judge will decide on his bail status at a future hearing.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of addressing domestic violence through a combination of strong law enforcement, victim support services, and preventative measures to break the cycle of abuse and protect vulnerable members of the community.