The 26-year-old Fargo man who pleaded guilty last month to a charge relating to a Moorhead road rage incident will serve six months in jail.
Jeremy Lewis Laverdure was sentenced Tuesday in Clay County District Court for reaching into a vehicle and grabbing the driver's wallet out of his back pocket.
The incident happened about 6:15 p.m. May 31 at the train crossing at Eighth Street and Center Avenue, court records say.
Judge John Pearson sentenced Laverdure to 18 months in prison, with that time stayed under the condition he serve six months in jail.
Laverdure received credit for time served since May 31.
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He pleaded guilty Aug. 6 to simple robbery, a felony. Under a plea agreement, prosecutors dismissed a fifth-degree assault charge.
Pearson warned Laverdure he would face prison time if he fails to comply with all conditions of the probation.
"You need to get a handle on whatever prompted you to do this," Pearson said to Laverdure, who was shaking his head in agreement. "It's somewhat bizarre, to say the least."
Pearson also ordered a chemical dependency evaluation and an anger management assessment.
Defense attorney Shawn Schmidt said mental health issues contributed to Laverdure's behavior.
Laverdure's pre-sentence investigation did not reveal a criminal history, Schmidt said.
Pearson ordered Laverdure to pay $59.48 restitution to the victim.
Chief Assistant Clay County Attorney Ken Kohler said that amount covers the stolen cash and wallet and the victim's jeans, which were torn.
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The victim, Kyle Richardson of Fargo, told The Forum in June he recognized Laverdure's vehicle as one he encountered in Fargo, minutes before the confrontation.
Richardson said he was driving behind the car when it made an unexpected move, prompting him to slam on his breaks and throw up his arms in irritation.
He said the other driver may have taken offense at his reaction and followed him.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Amy Dalrymple at (701) 241-5590
