An Albert Lea man who allegedly abused his 8-year-old son was charged on Monday in Freeborn County District Court.

Dakota Charles Dresser, 25, is charged with one count of gross misdemeanor malicious punishment of a child and one count of misdemeanor domestic assault.

Court documents state Dresser was charged after a Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office detective received a Department of Human Services report on Thursday.

The report indicated six or seven red scratch marks ranging from 2 inches to 6 inches from the inside of the alleged victim’s elbow to the top of his wrist.

A second report indicated the victim had been hit on his left arm with a telephone cord by Dresser. Injuries on the alleged victim’s arms corresponded with marks from a telephone cord, the report states.

A witness reportedly stated he thought the incident was an accident because Dresser apologized. The witness stated similar incidents happened while the child’s mother was gone.

Court documents state the witness said he suffered physical abuse as well. An approximately 1 to 2 inch thin red mark was reportedly observed on his right leg.

Freeborn County District Court Steven Schwab released Dresser on his own recognizance on Monday, contingent on him following court requirements.

A domestic abuse no-contact order was issued.

Dresser’s next court appearance is scheduled for March 30.

Malicious punishment of a child carries a maximum sentence of one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.