Clearfield man pleads guilty to trying to hit ex-girlfriend with his car

OGDEN — A Clearfield man initially charged with attempted murder in an Ogden confrontation with his ex-girlfriend is now awaiting sentencing after pleading to a reduced charge of aggravated assault, a first-degree felony.

In addition, James Junior Carter, 54, also pleaded guilty to domestic violence in the presence of a child, a third-degree felony, as part of a plea deal. He was originally charged with attempted murder, a first-degree felony. Two class A misdemeanors charges — violation of a protective order and unlawful possession of a dangerous weapon — were also dismissed as part of the deal.

On Dec. 10, Ogden police were called to 492 14th Street on reports of Carter trying to hit his ex-girlfriend with his car "multiple times," according to a police booking affidavit. Witnesses told police they were "sure he was going to kill the victim," but instead he hit an apartment building, another car and the victim's son's scooter.

Police say Carter fled the scene prior to officers arriving. He was arrested Feb. 6 and initially pleaded guilty June 22.

There was an active protective order against Carter at the time because of domestic violence charges, according to the affidavit. In a later interview, the victim's son told investigators he saw his mom running and Carter almost hitting her.

"The victim expressed to officers that she is incredibly fearful of (Carter) and for the safety of her child," the affidavit says.

Carter is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 18.

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