Clausen Pushes To Drop Charges In Helicopter Shooting

A Clearbrook man with three potential felony charges is motioning to have all charges dropped.

On October 4th, 2016, Carstie Lee Clausen,71, filed a notice of motion to challenge jurisdiction and causes for dismissal of charges.

In the article, Clausen states, “For the following reasons this motion shall be GRANTED due to the Court being unable to prove primary jurisdiction; to dispute cited cased-law (1935 Doctrine of primary jurisdiction); and to identify whether its claimed jurisdiction is under the aegis of Common or under Admiralty Law; I hereby request that these charges be dismissed.”

Clausen has been charged with attempted murder, first degree assault in use of deadly force against a peace officer, and reckless use of a dangerous weapon.

The complainant reported that Clausen fired his .30-30 caliber rifle twice at a helicopter.  The helicopter was flying over a rural Clearwater County area for suspected marijuana growth sitings, and was carrying a deputy who was observing for Pine to Prairie Drug Task Force and the U.S. Border Patrol.

The shots broke the glass and injured the deputy’s arm, rib cage, and eyes.

There has been no update on whether this case will be dropped.  Clausen is now representing himself with Shannon Elkins as his stand-by counsel.

If the charges still stand, Clausen will face a Jury Trial December 12th, 2016 at 9 A.M. in front of Judge Richard H. Kyle.