Trial date set for man accused of trying to cut off girlfriend's finger

A Cape Girardeau man accused of assaulting his fiancee in January by attempting to sever her ring finger will appear in court again in July when his case is heard before a jury. Jason J. Robert, who is charged with second-degree domestic assault, will hear evidence against him at a jury trial starting July 26. New Madrid County Circuit Judge Fred W. Copeland scheduled the trial Tuesday, when he also decided Robert must appear with his attorney, Gordon Glaus, on July 13 for a case review and confirm the trial setting.

After the couple had an argument Jan. 22, Robert allegedly tried to take back his girlfriend's engagement ring by attempting to cut her finger off with pliers. The victim, in a probable cause affidavit, said her daughter entered the room just in time to stop Robert.

In a separate incident on Jan. 21, Robert allegedly threatened to kill his fiancee by blowing up her home with dynamite.

In the last few years, the victim also alleged Robert has slapped, kicked and punched her on multiple occasions.

ehevern@semissourian.com

388-3635