An assault charge has been revised from a misdemeanor to a felony after the victim's mother pushed the legal system for a change.
The suspect, Shane Perrigo, turned himself in Friday morning. He is charged with felony first-degree assault for his alleged beating of Joshua Thomas on March 17th. Perrigo's bond was set for $15,000.
"He went beyond just a simple brawl and caused my son some severe pain and ongoing issues that he'll probably have to deal with the rest of his life,” said Melissa Thomas, whose son needed three metal plates and screws in his face after the assault.
Even though he suffered broken bones, prosecutors needed more than that to make it a felony. They needed information from doctors that the injuries posed a substantial risk of death or risk of permanent disfigurement. They believe they can now make the case.
