Self-defense claimed in battery case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man accused of fracturing a man’s skull outside a downtown bar plans to argue that he was acting in self-defense, according to court documents.

Counsel for Charles Tyler Sprinkle contends his client is in legal jeopardy for protecting himself and others from imminent danger of assault. Attorney Doug Phelps filed the notice of self-defense on Oct. 30.

Under Idaho Code, it’s unlawful for a person to be placed in legal jeopardy for defending themselves or others from a violent crime.

Sprinkle, 34, is accused of attacking a 36-year-old man outside the 219 Lounge on Aug. 30, resulting in a charge of aggravated battery.

Sprinkle pleaded not guilty to the felony offense, clearing the way for a four-day jury trial in 1st District Court next month. If convicted, Sprinkle faces up to 15 years in prison.

Sprinkle is accused of perpetrating a blind-sided attack on the man on Second Avenue.

The alleged victim and a drinking companion were bounced from the bar for being disorderly, although other patrons at the bar disputed that account.