Sagle man arrested, seven sexual abuse charges
CHLOE COCHRAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 9 months, 2 weeks AGO
Markel, Christopher
Courtesy of BONNER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
SANDPOINT — A man residing in Sagle was arrested early last week on several allegations of lewd conduct with a minor.
Christopher Dean Markel, 41, was arrested Jan. 21, for allegedly committing crimes that resulted in six felony counts of lewd conduct with a minor under 16 and one felony count of rape, where the victim is under 16.
Markel is facing up to life in prison for the allegations and may have to register on the national sex offender registry if found guilty.
He currently resides at the Bonner County Jail on a $350,000 bond. At the time of publishing, Markel is expected to request a bond reduction at a preliminary hearing Feb. 4.
Officials became aware of the allegations by way of a 911 call from the victim’s mother, who shared concerns about Markel’s alleged actions. According to court documents, the abuse took place between September 2021 and October 2024.
Anyone who suspects sexual abuse should call the Bonner County Sexual Abuse 24/7 hotline at 208-265-3586.
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