Hunter
09/08/26
An area transient was arrested after allegedly attacking a sleeping man.
30-year-old Christopher Bertling reportedly approached a man at 5:10am Sunday sleeping on the ground in the 100 block of East Washington Street. Police say without provocation, Bertling kicked the man in the head multiple times, leaving him with a laceration on his forehead.
Police allegedly observed Bertling with signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, poor balance, and the odor of alcohol on his person. He reportedly refused a post-arrest PBT.
Bertling was charged with Assault causing Bodily Injury and Public Intoxication. He could be sentenced to up to 13 months in jail if convicted. A no-contact order was requested between Bertling and the victim.
Bertling was arrested twice in one week earlier this year, after allegedly throwing a rock at a downtown pedestrian while threatening to kill them, and for reportedly painting a handrail inside the University Town Center without permission to do so. Court records show he pleaded down to a 5th degree criminal mischief charge and was sentenced to a day in jail and given credit for time served. Bertling has a case management conference scheduled for October 5th on charges of 1st degree Harassment and Disorderly Conduct.for the May 29th incident.