A 68-year-old Ketchum man has been charged with felony domestic battery for allegedly hitting his wife in the head with a flashlight.
Thomas M. Rhinevault was formally charged with the crime Sept. 14 in Blaine County Magistrate Court. He was also charged with the misdemeanor crimes of DUI and eluding police officers.
Ketchum police reported that charges stem from a domestic altercation at Rhinevault's east River Street home in the early morning hours of Sept. 14.
Police Chief Steve Harkins said officers were called to the home on a report of "domestic violence." Rhinevault allegedly left the home when police arrived and was followed in his vehicle "until he eventually stopped" near the Sun Valley Gun Club on Trail Creek Road.
Harkins said Rhinevault's wife was transported to St. Luke's Wood River Medical Center and treated for her injuries. Rhinevault was arrested and transported to the Blaine County jail.
He was released from custody following his court appearance after posting $7,500 bond. A preliminary hearing was scheduled for 9 a.m. on Sept. 29.
Terry Smith: tsmith@mtexpress.com