LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz. – Horsing around in a residential swimming pool in Lake Havasu City escalated to violence earlier this summer. Deputy Mohave County Attorney James Schoppmann said David Plunkett, 38, became angry during a playful water fight before striking his 13-year-old son in the chest more than once on July 22.
Schoppmann said Plunkett also threatened family members who intervened to terminate the incident. Plunkett pleaded guilty to aggravated assault in a deal dismissing another assault count, as well as disorderly conduct and threatening and intimidating charges.
Defense attorney Ross Carponelli, during a Sept. 14 sentencing hearing, suggested that Plunkett would benefit from help with substance abuse and anger management issues.
Judge Billy Sipe said alcohol and substance abuse is evident and he noted Plunkett’s conviction nine years ago for a similar violent episode. Sipe placed Plunkett on probation for three years, and did not impose further jail time beyond the 51 days already spent in custody.
