An individual from Austin faces multiple charges after allegedly threatening a neighbor with a firearm. Joseph William Hegge, aged 63, has been charged with second-degree assault with a dangerous weapon and threats of violence with reckless disregard for risk, both classified as felonies. Additional charges include gross misdemeanor interfering with an emergency call and misdemeanor fifth-degree assault. These charges were filed on Monday in Mower County District Court.
According to court documents, deputies from the Mower County Sheriff’s Office responded to an incident reported on the 17000 block of US Highway 218. The report involved a man accused of assaulting another person and threatening him with a gun. Upon arrival, the first deputy encountered the victim, who described warming up his motorcycle for work when an object struck his helmet. Turning around, he found Hegge allegedly pointing a gun at him. When the victim attempted to contact emergency services, Hegge reportedly tried to seize the phone, stating, “No you’re not.” The victim, who claimed not to know Hegge, attempted to explain his residency there.
A witness at the scene recounted hearing the victim rev his motorcycle and Hegge allegedly shouting at him to leave, threatening, “I’m going to get my gun and kill you.” Although she did not observe a weapon in Hegge’s possession, she heard repeated threats involving a gun. Hegge, when interviewed, admitted feeling annoyed by the victim’s perceived disrespect. Denying the use of a firearm, Hegge acknowledged having a knife on him, still in its packaging, suggesting it might have been mistaken for a firearm due to how he held it. He mentioned owning pistols, mostly flintlock types, and declined having prior interactions with the victim, citing a preference for “old school” methods over contacting authorities.
A search of Hegge’s residence revealed a 9mm pistol with a magazine holding seven rounds, two pellet guns near the entrance, and a machete-style knife in its original packaging. Further examination uncovered additional firearms, along with a substantial collection of knives, machetes, hatchets, and various blades throughout the home. Following his arrest, Hegge chose not to engage in discussions with a detective. His next court appearance is scheduled for April 21.
The Impact on Community Safety
This incident underscores the potential for escalated conflicts within residential neighborhoods, highlighting issues of community safety and the importance of conflict resolution. The presence of weapons and the alleged threats contribute to an environment of fear and insecurity among residents. This situation brings to light the broader implications of firearm accessibility and the need for effective communication channels within communities to address and de-escalate tensions before they result in violence.
The case also emphasizes the critical role of law enforcement in responding swiftly to reports of violence and threats. The community’s trust in local authorities is vital for maintaining safety and ensuring that incidents like these are handled appropriately. Residents may feel a heightened sense of vulnerability, which underscores the necessity for ongoing community engagement initiatives aimed at fostering safer, more cohesive neighborhoods.