William Sandel, the man accused of attacking and attempting to sexually assault two women, appeared in Missoula Justice Court on Thursday, July 10.

Deputy Missoula County Attorney Dorothy Brownlow said Sandel, from Idaho, was accused of attacking an unidentified woman, 26, from behind on July 8 and choking her. He then pushed her to the ground and laid on top of her. Brownlow said, at that point, the victim screamed for help.

"Luckily it was a very busy summer evening and several people heard her screaming. The male ran and they were able to apprehend him," Brownlow said.

Sandel is also accused of attempting to sexually assault another woman on July 5 who was walking on the Kim Williams Trail. He allegedly chased the woman and attempted to grab her breasts.

"The description matched with both victims," she said. "He was interviewed and admitted to that sexual assault on the Kim Williams trail."

Sandel has been charged with felony aggravated assault and two counts of misdemeanor sexual assault.

The maximum sentence for aggravated assault is 20 years in jail and a fine of up to $50,000. The sentence for misdemeanor sexual assault is up to six months in jail and up to a $500 fine.

Judge Karen Orzech placed Sandel back in the Missoula County Jail on $100,000 bond.

Deputy Missoula County Attorney Dorothy Brownlow

 

 

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