Iowa man gets probation for firing shotgun after Ding Dong Ditch doorbell incident

LE MARS, Iowa (AP) - A Le Mars man has been given probation for firing a shotgun after two teenagers rang his doorbell and ran.

Gary Holst pleaded guilty last October to third-degree criminal mischief and reckless use of a firearm.

During sentencing on Tuesday, Holst was given a deferred judgment, which means the case won't go on his record if he completes probation.

Holst was charged in August 2008. According to court records, two teens rang Holst's doorbell, then fled. As they drove by in a car, Holst was in the street holding a shotgun and he fired. No one was injured.

Prosecutors wanted jail time, saying Holst discharged a firearm in the city limits out of anger. The defense argued Holst was trying to protect his property and self and intended no harm.

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Information from: Daily Sentinel, http://www.lemarssentinel.com

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.