Homeless Man Charged For Knife Chase on Rochester Bike Path

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- A homeless man is facing felony charges for an incident that occurred on a Rochester bike path last week. 

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That’s according to a criminal complaint filed in Olmsted County Court on Friday. 

Rochester police responded to the alleged assault on Thursday. The complaint does not say which bike path the alleged assault took place.

Homeless Man Accused of Using Knife to Threaten Two People on Rochester Bike Path

35-year-old Damien Justin Newman is charged with two counts of second-degree assault, two counts of felony threats and misdemeanor charge of obstructing the legal process. 

The victims told police they were on the path when they encountered Newman. They said he brandished a knife and began chasing after them, the complaint says. 

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At one point Newman lunged at the victims and made a slashing motion at them while holding the knife. He’s also accused of throwing rocks at the victims and yelling he was “going to get them,” the charges say. 

No injuries were reported. The complaint says Newman chased the victims for about 50 yards before they got away. 

Assault Suspect Accused of Resisting Arrest

Responding officers found Newman in the area and tried to take him into custody. He took off his shirt, balled his fist and began swinging at the officers, the complaint says. 

Police took Newman to the ground and arrested him, according to the court document. The knife is described in the complaint as being larger than a box cutter with a silver blade. 

Court records indicate Newman has a criminal record that dates back to 2010 and includes convictions for felony domestic assault, drug possession and property damage. 

Newman’s bail was set at $50,000 without conditions following his first court appearance on Friday. He is due back in court later this month.