Twin Cities Man Arrested in Coon Rapids, Faces Felony Domestic Assault, No-Contact Order Violation, and Property Damage Charges

COON RAPIDS, Minn. — A 28-year-old Coon Rapids man, Cole Edwin Ashpole, is in custody, facing two felony charges — domestic assault and violating a no-contact order — along with a misdemeanor count of property damage, according to police and court records.

Authorities say the charges stem from an alleged domestic incident currently under investigation by the Coon Rapids Police Department. Details of the event have not been publicly released.

Under Minnesota law, domestic assault can be elevated to a felony if the accused has prior domestic violence convictions within the past decade. Court documents show that Ashpole has a prior record, including a May 2024 conviction in Wright County for a gross misdemeanor domestic assault — subsequent violation — and an earlier January 2024 arrest for domestic assault by strangulation.

The felony charge for violating a no-contact order indicates that the alleged assault occurred while a court-issued protective order was in effect. Violations of such orders, particularly when accompanied by new criminal activity, often result in stricter bail conditions and enhanced penalties if convicted.

The misdemeanor charge of property damage suggests that the incident involved harm to the victim’s property, though police have not provided further details.

Ashpole remains in custody pending a court appearance where bail and release conditions will be determined. The case will be prosecuted by the Anoka County Attorney’s Office, and the court is expected to maintain protective measures to ensure the alleged victim’s safety.

Legal experts note that repeat domestic violence cases like this underscore the importance of strict enforcement of protective orders and the challenges law enforcement faces in preventing recidivism. If convicted, Ashpole could face significant prison time, fines, and other penalties under Minnesota law.

The case highlights ongoing efforts by local authorities to hold repeat offenders accountable and protect victims, while illustrating the serious consequences of violating court orders designed to prevent further abuse.

MinneapoliMedia