A 17-year-old San Juan Island boy accused of wielding a knife and attacking a rival in an altercation over a girl is slated to stand trial in late July on four criminal charges, including two felonies.

The boy pleaded not guilty in San Juan County Juvenile May 29 to assault with a deadly weapon, a Class B felony, and to attempted second-degree assault, a Class C felony, and to two misdemeanors as well, unlawful display of a weapon and criminal trespass. He faces maximum penalties of confinement until age 21 if convicted of a felony assault offense.

The Journal does not identified by name minors involved in criminal cases, unless named by local law enforcement officials.

According to court documents, prosecutors claim the 17-year-old first brandished and then wielded a knife when he attacked another boy during a brief altercation involving a group of teens at the home of a girl that the boy reportedly was fond of. The girl, who was hosting a bonfire party with a group of friends, had repeatedly told the boy earlier over the phone that he was not welcome, according to court documents.

The 17-year-old and a friend reportedly were intoxicated when they arrived at the girl’s home. Following an argument that erupted into a brief altercation, in which no one was injured, the two boys drove away.

Those at the party reportedly called the Sheriff’s office to warn that the two were out on the road and intoxicated.

— Scott Rasmussen