On June 3, 2026, a Sartell man pleaded guilty in Stearns County District Court to a felony threats charge tied to a February incident that ended with police freeing a woman from an apartment. The last minute plea came the same day his jury trial was scheduled to begin and wraps up a case that pulled multiple law enforcement agencies to the 400 block of 7th Street North in Sartell on Feb. 13.
According to WJON, 45-year-old Aaron Wright pleaded guilty to one count of threats of violence in Stearns County District Court. As part of the plea agreement, the court dismissed the remaining charges and set sentencing for August 2026.
Victim Support And Resources
Domestic violence advocates say prompt reporting and safety planning can be critical for survivors trying to leave dangerous situations. Violence Free Minnesota lists a 24/7 statewide hotline and a directory of local programs, and the Minnesota Department of Corrections maintains a guide to community-based resources for victims.
How Police Say The Rescue Unfolded
As detailed in earlier reporting by WJON, several law enforcement agencies responded to the 400 block of 7th Street North shortly after midnight on Feb. 13. Officers were dispatched after a man in Arizona reported that he had received a text from the woman saying she was being held.
When officers arrived, they encountered Wright and the woman in the entryway of the building. The victim freed herself and ran to safety while Wright refused commands and ran back inside. Police say he later jumped from a third story window in an attempt to flee before being arrested.
He was booked on suspicion of domestic assault by strangulation, felony threats of violence, false imprisonment and providing a false name to an officer. Authorities said a search of the apartment did not turn up a gun.
Why The Charge Matters
Under Minnesota law, domestic assault can be charged as a misdemeanor or escalated to a felony depending on prior convictions. The statutes that cover these offenses include Minn. Stat. 609.2242 and 609.2247, which defines domestic assault by strangulation. Those statutes also allow courts to order the transfer of firearms after certain convictions and carry penalties that increase with qualifying prior domestic violence offenses.
Wright is due to be sentenced in August, and court calendars will list the exact hearing date. Authorities reiterated that anyone in immediate danger should call 911, and that the statewide hotline and local advocacy programs can provide confidential help.
