In Idaho Falls, Idaho, two men are facing charges after allegedly assaulting a woman with a box cutter in what appears to be a road rage incident. The suspects, identified as Justin Crabtree, 38, and Jeffery Bowles, 39, have been charged with one count of felony aggravated battery.
The incident occurred on September 8, when the woman was driving east on 12th Street. A white 2013 Ford Explorer reportedly pulled out in front of her at the intersection of 12th Street and Merritt, leading to a heated exchange. The woman admitted to expressing her anger towards the vehicle and flipping them the bird, which led to the two men exiting their car and confronting her.
According to the woman’s account, the men threatened her before physically pulling her from her vehicle and assaulting her. The altercation escalated when one of the men allegedly used a box cutter to inflict a two-inch cut on her right cheek and eyebrow. Following the attack, the woman was able to photograph the men’s license plate and provide a description to the police.
The suspects were later spotted in the same Ford Explorer at a Winco parking lot, wearing the same clothes as described by the victim. The woman positively identified Crabtree and Bowles from a photo provided by the police. A warrant was subsequently issued for their arrest, and both men were taken into custody at the Bonneville County Jail on September 25.
Crabtree and Bowles have since posted a $15,000 bond each. No-contact orders have been issued for the victim against both men. Preliminary hearings for the suspects are scheduled for October 11 and October 20, and if convicted, they could face up to 15 years in prison.
It is important to note that charges are merely accusations, and the accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty.