Rape sentencing set for February
KAYE THORNBRUGH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 8 months AGO
Kaye Thornbrugh is a second-generation Kootenai County resident who has been with the Coeur d’Alene Press for six years. She primarily covers Kootenai County’s government, as well as law enforcement, the legal system and North Idaho College. | January 17, 2025 1:00 AM
COEUR d’ALENE — A St. Maries man who pleaded guilty to raping a teen girl and faces similar charges in another county will be sentenced next month.
Jonathan R. Cummins, 22, pleaded guilty in October in a Kootenai County court to rape, a felony punishable by up to life in prison.
Legal counsel for Cummins confirmed in court Thursday that Cummins was assessed last week for his presentence report. Because the report will likely take several weeks to prepare, Cummins’ sentencing has been scheduled for Feb. 13 before First District Judge Ross Pittman.
The charges stem from July 2024, when a 16-year-old girl reported to police that Cummins raped her after providing her with alcohol. Witnesses told police they walked in on an unclothed Cummins in the teen’s bedroom and told him to leave after learning he was 22 years old.
In exchange for Cummins’ guilty plea, prosecutors agreed to dismiss a felony charge of sexual battery of a minor and to recommend that the court retain jurisdiction over Cummins when he is sentenced.
If the court retains jurisdiction over Cummins, he would enter a prison treatment program, called a rider, for up to one year before the judge decides to place him on probation or send him back to prison.
In Benewah County, in a separate matter, Cummins faces two counts of rape, as well as sexual abuse of a child under the age of 16, enticing children over the internet and felonious administration of drugs, all felonies. He is also charged with dispensing to minors, a misdemeanor.
While police were investigating the Kootenai County case, a different 16-year-old girl reported that Cummins “had sex with her” on two occasions last summer, after allegedly providing her with alcohol and while she was “extremely intoxicated,” according to court records.
When questioned by police, Cummins allegedly admitted to providing the Benewah County teen with alcohol and “having sex with her” on two occasions.
In Idaho, a person aged 16 or 17 cannot consent to sex with a person more than three years older.
A Benewah County sheriff’s deputy who interviewed Cummins described Cummins in court records as having “exhibited behaviors consistent with grooming children to gain favor for sexual acts” and deflected responsibility for his actions.
Cummins remains in the Kootenai County jail on $50,000 bail.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, reach Safe Passage 24/7 by calling 208-664-9303 or texting 208-449-7228.
ARTICLES BY KAYE THORNBRUGH
Prosecutor condemns threatening comments
After press release sparks outcry, Mortensen shares insight
After a news release about the outcome of a criminal case sparked outcry this week, Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney Stan Mortensen said he aims to inform the public through the information he publishes, not fan the flames of anger.
No serious injuries after car drives off Resort parking garage
No serious injuries were reported Friday afternoon after an occupied vehicle drove off the third level of the Coeur d'Alene Resort parking garage, according to authorities.
KCRCC addresses investigation into Prop 1 signers
Details under wraps after lengthy meeting
In a tense meeting that stretched past midnight this week, the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee discussed an investigation into members who signed to qualify a proposed abortion-rights initiative for the November ballot.