Feds Charge Marin Man With Domestic Violence: DOJ

FRESNO, CA — A Marin man is facing federal domestic violence charges in connection with a incident earlier this month during a visit to Yosemite National Park in which he threatened to kill his wife, the Department of Justice said in a news release.

A federal grand jury on Thursday returned a one-count indictment against Stefan Niels Weiste Kirkeby, 59 of San Rafael, charging him with "domestic violence within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States," U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

The victim sustained bruising, pain to her wrist, and scratches, the DOJ said.

According to court documents, Kirkeby and his wife on Aug. 4 got into a verbal confrontation that resulted in park visitors having to intervene due to the yelling as well as the threats of harm being made by Kirkeby.

The victim reported she was forcibly grabbed by her wrist and both fell to the ground. Kirkeby threatened to kill his wife and then himself during the altercation, the DOJ said.

The National Park Service initiated the investigation, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laurel J. Montoya.

If convicted, Kirkeby faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Anyone with information related to this case is asked to submit a tip online, call 888-653-0009, or email nps_isb@nps.gov.