By Heather Spaulding

Reporter

Richard R. Terry, 54, of Port Townsend, is charged with assault in the third degree, after allegedly punching a park ranger in the face. A hearing is scheduled in San Juan County Superior Court on Oct. 20, at 9 a.m.

The incident occurred at Moran State Park on Orcas Island, where Terry was camping. According to the San Juan County Sheriff’s document, a ranger reported that a male in a yellow tent located by the boat launch punched him on the left side of his neck and face. Two witnesses identified the perpetrator as Terry. The report did not explain Terry’s motivation for the alleged assault. Watch the Journal for updates.

RCW 9A.36.031, states that a person is guilty of assault in the third degree in part when they have assaulted “a law enforcement officer or another employee of a law enforcement agency while that person is performing his or her official work duties at the time of the assault.” It is a Class C felony and can result in $10,000 worth of fines, or up to five years in prison if the subject has been prior convictions.

Terry’s criminal record includes assault, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest throughout Washington, Alaska, Oregon, and Wyoming.