New York Mills Man Charged with Assault After Allegedly Pointing Gun at Victim

A rural New York Mills man faces serious charges after an alleged domestic disturbance involving a firearm.
Authorities have charged 32-year-old Cody William Steinbach with 2nd Degree Assault with a Dangerous Weapon following an incident on Monday, January 27th. According to the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Department, officers responded to a call regarding a disturbance at Steinbach’s home around 9 a.m.
The victim, who had reportedly ended an on-again, off-again relationship with Steinbach the night before, told officials that she went to the residence to retrieve her belongings. She said Steinbach became aggressive, eventually leaving the garage and returning with a handgun. According to her account, Steinbach fired a warning shot and then pressed the weapon against her chest and forehead. A witness who arrived at the scene called police after Steinbach allegedly threatened to shoot anyone who entered the house.
Officers detained Steinbach at the scene. He admitted to retrieving a .22 caliber handgun during the altercation but claimed he fired the shot because the victim did not believe the gun was real. He also alleged that the victim approached him with a gardening tool at one point.
Steinbach made his first court appearance on Wednesday, January 29th, and awaits further proceedings.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns around domestic violence and firearm safety in Otter Tail County.