Wisconsin Man Pleads Not Guilty to Strangulation and Battery Charges in Birchwood Assault Case

BARRON COUNTY, WISCONSIN — A Birchwood man accused of choking and assaulting a woman at a local ball field last month has pleaded not guilty to multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, according to Barron County Circuit Court records.

Scott G. Hopland, 45, was charged on September 8 with two felonies — strangulation and suffocation and intimidation of a victim — as well as two misdemeanor counts of battery and disorderly conduct. Prosecutors also charged him as a repeater, citing previous criminal history.

Incident at Brill Ball Field Sparks Charges

The case stems from an incident on September 4 at the Brill ball field, where prosecutors allege Hopland attacked and choked a woman during a violent altercation.

Authorities said the victim reported being grabbed by the neck and struck multiple times, leading to visible injuries. Following the incident, Barron County deputies arrested Hopland after locating him nearby.

Court filings show prosecutors added an intimidation charge after Hopland allegedly attempted to dissuade the victim from cooperating with investigators.

Defendant Requests Speedy Trial

During his arraignment on October 25, Hopland pleaded not guilty to all counts and requested a speedy trial, which has been scheduled for December 29 in Barron County Circuit Court.

If convicted, Hopland faces significant prison time, particularly under the intimidation of a victim statute, which carries enhanced penalties for repeat offenders.

He remains free on bond pending trial, under conditions prohibiting contact with the victim and restricting his presence at certain public locations.

As Barron County prosecutors prepare for trial, authorities continue to emphasize the importance of reporting and prosecuting domestic and physical violence cases across Wisconsin. For updates on court proceedings and public safety news, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.