Rene Boucher, 59, a retired anesthesiologist, appeared in Warren County District Court on Thursday morning with his attorney. He faces a possible 12-month sentence and a $500 fine if he is convicted of fourth-degree assault, according to County Attorney Amy Milliken.

It remains unclear whether more serious federal and state felony charges are on the way, with Kentucky State Police and FBI investigations continuing.

New details emerged Thursday about the day of the attack, when five hours apparently elapsed from the time police responded to Paul's home to the moment they arrested Boucher.

But the mysterious nature of the attack remained unsolved. Police, and Paul himself, were unaware initially just how serious his injuries were — and Paul did not immediately seek medical attention, police said. In addition, no new evidence emerged Thursday to help explain a motive for the altercation.