Owners of Cody steakhouse arrested
CODY (WNE) — Cassie’s Steakhouse, a historic restaurant in Cody, became the center of a dramatic incident on the night of June 19.
The owners, Randel and Courtney Hooper, were arrested following a heated confrontation with customers that escalated into threats and physical violence. The altercation resulted in charges of terroristic threats, harassment, and assault against a police officer, according to the affidavit.
The trouble began when a group of patrons expressed dissatisfaction with the service at Cassie’s, leading to a verbal altercation with Courtney Hooper.
According to Cody Police Officer Daniel Villalobos, the customers threatened to kill her because they waited an hour and a half to be seated. In response, Hooper called 911 and also informed her husband, Randel, about the threats.
The Hoopers followed the disgruntled customers, Alan and Grace Metzger, halfway to the Big Bear Motel where they were staying. Villalobos intervened, and Courtney Hooper told the officer she did not wish to press charges but wanted the Metzgers never to come back to Cassie’s.
Villalobos broke up the confrontation but said another one started an hour later when the Hoopers went to the Metzgers’ motel.
Randel Hooper shouted at Villalobos, “You better [expletive] arrest them or I’ll be back and I’ll [expletive] kill them.”
The situation escalated further when Randel resisted arrest and kicked Villalobos in the head, causing injuries that required medical attention.
Both Randel and Courtney Hooper were taken into custody.
Randel faces a felony charge for assaulting a police officer, which could result in up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted. Courtney faces three misdemeanor charges related to the incident. During their arraignment, Randel’s bond was set at $5,000 cash/surety, while Courtney’s was set at $2,500 cash/surety.
The Hoopers’ next court appearances are scheduled for later this month, with Randel set for a preliminary hearing on June 28 and Courtney’s trial set for November 14.
This story was published on June 24, 2024.
