Billings, Montana – Genevienne Marlene Rancuret, a 55-year-old woman, has pleaded not guilty to multiple felony charges. This follows an alarming event where she reportedly drove her vehicle through a group of religious demonstrators, causing injuries and property damage.
The Incident and Arraignment
The incident occurred over a weekend near a busy road in front of a grocery store. According to court documents and witness accounts, about 10 men from the group ‘Israel United in Christ’ were present at the location. They were engaged in holding signs and reading the Bible through an amplifier. It was during this peaceful demonstration that Rancuret allegedly drove her Jeep Wrangler at or through the group several times.
Moments before the incident, Rancuret had expressed her displeasure to an employee at a nearby convenience store. She accused the group of being racist against white people and hinted at her intention to run them over. After the event, Rancuret admitted to the police that she felt threatened by the group, claiming they had used a derogatory term against her. This perceived threat led her to intentionally drive at the demonstrators.
One of the demonstrators, a 45-year-old man, suffered a leg injury and was taken to the hospital. The assault also resulted in over $1,500 worth of damage to the group’s equipment.
During her arraignment in state district court, Rancuret was ordered to be held on a $250,000 bond. Victims of the assault and their supporters were present at the hearing.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Rancuret faces severe legal consequences for her actions. She is charged with nine counts of assault with a weapon, criminal endangerment, criminal mischief, and driving under the influence. The case is drawing significant attention, with the next hearing scheduled for February 15. A trial is set to commence on April 1 before District Judge Rod Souza, where the details of this disturbing incident will be further examined.
