Francis faces third pretrial conference in lewd conduct case
CHLOE COCHRAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 4 months, 2 weeks AGO
Christopher Francis
Courtesy of BONNER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
SANDPOINT — A man facing multiple lewd conduct charges is scheduled to appear in court today, Sept. 30, in another pretrial conference.
Christopher George Francis, 49, faces three counts of lewd conduct with a minor under the age of 16. He currently is being held at the Bonner County Jail on a $200,000 bond for the charges.
The Tuesday pretrial conference is the third one in Francis’ case.
A pretrial conference is a hearing that is scheduled before a trial and is an opportunity for both parties to discuss the case and determine whether it will go to trial or be settled through a plea agreement.
Two pretrial conferences have already taken place in Francis’ case; the first was continued to allow more time to review discovery. The reason for the second continuance was not disclosed in court minutes.
During today’s conference, the defense counsel will either ask for another continuance, enter a guilty plea or announce readiness for trial, which is slated to start Oct. 29 with District Judge Lamont Berecz.
Court documents outlining probable cause for Francis’ arrest remain sealed due to the sensitive nature of the case.
Anyone who suspects sexual abuse should contact the Bonner County sexual abuse 24/7 helpline at 208-265-3586. For an alternate helpline, call 208-263-6714.
ARTICLES BY CHLOE COCHRAN
Zoning commission denies proposed marina expansion
After a six-and-a-half-hour meeting, the Bonner County zoning commission unanimously denied a conditional use permit to expand a commercial marina off Lakeshore Drive in Sagle.
Solid Waste reports slow sites, increased phone calls
During Bonner County's solid waste department update, officials noted a continued uptick in calls from residents following last year’s sticker and fee increase, even as overall waste tonnage declines.
County approves facilities updates, bridge design contract
Bonner County commissioners accepted several agenda items for county infrastructure improvements during Tuesday’s business meeting, including approving safety updates and a bridge design contract.