A 28-year-old Pelican Rapids resident, Cole Edward Franzen, is facing several felony charges following a confrontation with law enforcement during a domestic assault arrest.
On the evening of December 14th, Pelican Rapids Police and an Otter Tail County deputy responded to a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, officers informed Franzen of his arrest for domestic assault, prompting him to flee towards his residence. A deputy apprehended him in the entryway, leading to a physical struggle where Franzen overpowered the deputy.
During the altercation, an officer deployed a taser, which proved ineffective. Franzen managed to seize the taser and used it against the deputy before officers regained control and subdued him after multiple attempts.
Franzen now faces charges including two felony counts of Domestic Assault, felony Disarming a Peace Officer, fourth-degree Assault Towards a Peace Officer, and misdemeanor Fleeing a Peace Officer. He appeared in court on December 17th.
This incident underscores the risks law enforcement officers encounter during domestic disturbance responses. The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes the importance of community support and cooperation in ensuring public safety.