Rand Paul’s neighbor pleads not guilty to assault charge

Sen. Rand Paul’s (R-Ky.) neighbor pleaded not guilty Thursday to assaulting the senator last weekend outside his Kentucky home, The Associated Press reported. 

Rene Boucher pleaded not guilty to a fourth-degree assault charge, according to the news service, which added that he faces up to a year in jail if convicted.

He is due back in court Nov. 30 for a pre-trial hearing.

{mosads}Paul on Wednesday revealed that a sixth rib was broken in the alleged assault and an x-ray found fluid buildup around his lungs. It is unknown when he will return to the Senate, as his injury makes it difficult to travel.

The New York Times reported earlier this week that the argument leading to the alleged assault began over landscaping.

But Paul on Wednesday tweeted two reports questioning suggestions that the alleged attack was sparked by a landscaping dispute. Neither of his tweets, however, included commentary from the senator.

Boucher’s lawyer said Monday that the feud was not related to politics, but was over a “trivial” matter. The two have been neighbors for 17 years.