Former Ensign aide accused of domestic battery

A former aide to ex-U.S. Sen. John Ensign is to appear in East Fork Justice Court today on allegations of domestic battery and coercion.

Kevin S. Kirkeby, 47, was released Monday from Douglas County Jail where he had been held on $5,500 bail. Terms of his release include no contact with the victim and supervision by the Department of Alternative Sentencing.

He was charged with battery that constitutes domestic violence and coercion.

According to reports, Douglas County deputies were called to Kirkeby's Sunridge residence in the 3400 block of Smoketree Avenue at 4:15 p.m. Sunday for a domestic battery report.

Kirkeby reportedly told officers he and the victim were arguing over personal issues. He said she tried to use her cell phone, but he took it from her because "I wanted her to listen to me."

He admitted that he pushed her away.

The kitchen phone was partially hanging on the wall, deputies said, and the cord had been detached.

The alleged victim said she and the suspect were arguing and he grabbed her throat with his right hand and squeezed. She pulled away and tried to use her cell phone to call 911, but said Kirkeby took it from her and put it in his pocket.

She said he ripped a cordless phone base from the wall.

She called 911 from a neighbor's house.

Kirkeby, appearing Monday for arraignment before East Fork Justice Tom Perkins, said he would hire his own lawyer.

Kirkeby worked for Ensign for 10 years as rural director. He is a former White Pine County commissioner.

Kirkeby also is an applicant for Minden town manager.