Violation nets fourteen days

Scott Jess, 40, LaCrosse, was sentenced to an additional 14 days in jail after admitting a probation violation Friday morning in Whitman County Superior Court. Chief Deputy Prosecutor Daniel LeBeau told the court Jess, during a Feb. 21 probation review session, said he was doing fine and progressing with counseling. As part of the session Jess underwent a routine test which indicated he had been drinking "a significant amount" in violation of one of the conditions of his probation.

Jess was sentenced Dec. 22 on charges of assault in the third and fourth degree, both with domestic violence. He was sentenced to three months in jail on the first charge and a year on the second charge with all but 274 days suspended.

LeBeau said the violation included the drinking and lying during the probation review.

Jess has been working on a farm, and his employer said he was an excellent worker, but he let him down. He said he was willing to give Jess one more chance, but if he violates again he will be out of a job and the residence that goes with the job. Jess will serve the jail time on weekends.