Two charges reinstated in Fatt Boys case

Burglary and theft charges that were dropped last month against a Kalispell man accused of burglarizing Fatt Boys in November were reinstated Wednesday.

Anthony Johnson, 26, is accused of breaking into the bar and stealing a safe containing about $35,000.

He was arrested Nov. 9 at the Canadian border, where officials say he illegally entered their country. When he was arrested, he had $5,000, some methamphetamine, and a $2,300 check made out to the owner of Fatt Boys, according to court documents. The check was allegedly in the safe at the time of the burglary.

Johnson denies entering Fatt Boys on Nov. 7 through a roof hatch, prying open the office door and removing the safe. The safe was found in the Flathead River near Badrock Canyon.

Burglary and theft charges were filed and then dropped Dec. 22.

Deputy County Attorney Dan Guzynski said the charge was dropped because of a delay in getting back evidence from Canadian authorities. That could interfere with Johnson's right to a speedy trial. Guzynski was confident that Johnson wouldn't bond out of jail until charges could be refiled. That occurred Wednesday.

While the legal machinations worked, Johnson reportedly helped save another prisoner's life Dec. 3.

A man reportedly tore a blanket into strips, looped the fabric around his neck and hanged himself from a bunk.

Sheriff's Office reports indicate that Johnson pushed a call button for help and lifted the man so he could remove the noose.

"He did the right thing when he hit the call button," Undersheriff Mike Meehan said.

The other inmate survived without serious injuries.

Johnson also is charged with illegally crossing the Canadian border and operation of a meth lab.

More charges may be pending.