Lakeside man accused of threatening pharmacist

A man accused of pointing a gun at a Lakeside pharmacist pleaded not guilty on Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Thomas Daniel Devine, 76, of Lakeside, is facing a felony charge of assault with a weapon.

According to court documents, Devine threatened a pharmacist by positioning the barrel of a pistol in his direction and demanding the pharmacist get him medication.

When the pharmacist tried to explain to Devine he needed a prescription, Devine allegedly became angrier and shouted vulgarities. The pharmacist was fearful that Devine would use the pistol against him or himself, according to court documents.

Officers later contacted Devine at his house. He allegedly stated he hadn’t slept in days and was in severe pain at the time of the incident.

According to court documents, a search of Devine’s vehicle revealed a tan plastic bag containing a loaded .45-caliber semi-automatic pistol.

If Devine is found guilty, he could face a maximum of 20 years in state prison and a maximum fine of $50,000.