Cape Girardeau man accused of assault pleads guilty to peace disturbance

NEW MADRID, Mo. -- A Cape Girardeau man's jury trial set to begin July 26 was canceled in New Madrid County court Tuesday, when he pleaded guilty to an amended charge of misdemeanor peace disturbance.

Jason J. Robert, who was originally charged with felony domestic assault and tampering in January, was accused of attempting to sever his fiancee's ring finger with a pliers after the couple had an argument on Jan. 22.

The tampering charge was dismissed in Robert's preliminary hearing after the state could not prove he took his fiancee's vehicle without her permission.

Circuit Court Judge Fred W. Copeland waived a sentencing assessment report Tuesday and sentenced Robert to pay numerous court costs.

Robert's attorney, Gordon Glaus, said the plea agreement outlines that Robert must pay a fine of $200.