BUCKHANNON – A Buckhannon woman is facing two charges after West Virginia State Police were called to a domestic incident in which she allegedly cut the victim with a kitchen knife on Sunday.
Amanda Starr Benson, 38, has been charged with one felony count of malicious assault and one misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct after a verbal and physical argument occurred on St. Patrick’s Day, according to the criminal complaint in the Upshur County Magistrate Clerk’s Office.
The report, filed by investigating officer Trooper J.S. Tonkin with the Buckhannon detachment of the West Virginia State Police, says Benson and the victim advised the troopers that the two had been engaged in a verbal argument that turned physical inside their residence.
The victim stated that the argument was related to Benson leaving to see another man, and when she started to become agitated, she allegedly began to throw items throughout the home, the report says.
The victim further advised that when he attempted to retreat to the bedroom, Benson allegedly kicked in the door in an attempt to enter.
The report says the victim advised that he let Benson inside the room and then went into the bathroom in an attempt to get away from her. The victim also told police that Benson followed him to the bathroom and attempted to kick that door in as well, according to the complaint.
During the altercation, Benson allegedly picked up a black kitchen knife and began to “slash at and cut him with it,” the file says.
Officers observed four minor lacerations on the victim, one on his right bicep, one on his right lower abdomen, one on the left rib cage area and what appeared to be fingernail scratches on the right side of his neck, reports the criminal complaint.
However, the police report notes, “The victim displayed no marks consistent with physical abuse.”
After speaking with Benson, officers, including Tonkin, Senior Trooper P.J. Robinette and Cpl. B.K. Wright, were able to locate the knife partially hidden under a hand towel in the bathroom of the residence.
Once Benson was placed into custody outside of the residence, she began to yell and curse, states the complaint. Officers advised Benson to stop yelling and cursing several times; however, she continued to shout loud enough for neighbors to be disturbed.
Magistrate Mike Coffman set bail at $75,500.
If found guilty of the malicious assault charge, Benson could face not less than two nor more than ten years in a state correctional facility. If found guilty of the disorderly conduct charge, she may be confined in jail for 24 hours or fined not more than $100.
