Teen accused of attacking ex-girlfriend at career center

PERRYVILLE, Mo. -- While in school at Perryville Area Career and Technology Center, a student allegedly assaulted and threatened his former girlfriend.

Jesse S. Walls, 18, of Sedgewickville, Missouri, was arrested Monday on charges of assault on school property, second-degree domestic assault, unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action, all felonies.

The assaults reportedly spanned three months, occurring in the auto collision shop, classroom and paint booth. They started Sept. 7, when Walls brought the victim to the ground and kicked her in the stomach, Perry County school resource deputy Joseph Berry wrote in a probable-cause statement.

On Oct. 20, Walls grabbed the victim from behind, wrapped his arms around her neck and choked her until she could not breathe, Berry wrote. Walls pulled a 3-inch knife and placed the blade at the victim's throat, saying he was going to kill her, according to the statement.

On Nov. 2, the victim bent to plug in her laptop computer when Walls grabbed her by the hair and pulled her down to the ground, Berry wrote. Walls eventually let her go but grabbed her arm and twisted it until the victim cried out because of the pain, the statement said.

On Nov. 5, he pointed a knife at the victim's stomach, Berry wrote.

Berry listed six witnesses to these attacks in the probable-cause statement.

Walls' bond is set at $10,000 cash or surety.

bkleine@semissourian.com

(573) 388-3644

Pertinent address: 326 College St., Perryville, Mo.