Lang
8/2/26
A transient accused of an assault involving a machete has reached a plea deal.
46-year-old Thomas Paintin agreed to plead guilty to unknown charges last week. Paintin was initially charged with Assault With a Dangerous Weapon, Assault Causing Bodily Injury, Person Ineligible to Carry a Dangerous Weapon, Possession of a Controlled Substance – 3rd or Subsequent Offense, and 2nd Offense Trespassing.
According to arrest records, just after 3:15 on the afternoon of September 16th, 2025, Paintin was told to leave the apartment stairwell at 335 South Gilbert Street because he was trespassing. He reportedly replied by pulling out a 13-inch machete, pushing one person to the ground and another down a staircase, and threatening to “kick their asses”. A small baggie of methamphetamine was allegedly found on Paintin’s person upon his arrest.
Paintin had faced a maximum of nine years in prison, if convicted on all counts. Sentencing is set for August 28th.