A spokesperson for Sen. Rand Paul, MD, R-Ky., confirmed Nov. 5 the senator was assaulted by a physician in Kentucky Friday and suffered five rib fractures and lung contusions, according to the Bowling Green Daily News.
Rene Boucher, DO, was arrested Nov. 3 and charged with fourth-degree assault causing minor injury. Police said Dr. Boucher, who is reportedly Dr. Paul's neighbor in Kentucky, was released from Warren County Detention Center in Bowling Green, Ky., Nov. 4 on a $7,500 bond, according to Reuters.
According to the arrest warrant obtained by the Bowling Green Daily News, Dr. Paul told police Dr. Boucher, 59, came onto his property around 3:20 p.m. Friday and tackled him from behind. The arrest warrant also stated Dr. Paul suffered injuries to his face and had trouble breathing, the report states.
Police said it is unclear what motivated the altercation and Dr. Paul did not report to a nearby hospital after the incident, Reuters reports. Dr. Paul was reportedly mowing his lawn at the time of the incident.
Dr. Paul tweeted Sunday morning he and his wife "appreciate the overwhelming support after Friday's unfortunate event."
If convicted, Dr. Boucher may face up to 12 months in jail and further charges may be brought against him based on the extent of Dr. Paul's injuries, according to the Bowling Green Daily News.