Arlee man enters Alford Plea in sex abuse case
JEFF SMITH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 3 months AGO
Dalton Best
Jeff Smith is news director for Anderson Broadcasting and a contributor to the Lake County Leader. | July 2, 2026 12:00 AM
Dalton Ray Best, 20, of Arlee, entered an Alford plea in District Court in Polson June 24 to sexual abuse of children.
In an Alford plea a defendant cedes the case based on state’s evidence without admitting guilt. It carries the same weight as a conviction.
The plea agreement calls for the state capping its recommendation for sentencing to 20 years in the Montana State Prison with 10 years suspended. The defense may argue for any legal sentence, and the judge is not bound by the agreement.
According to court records, on July 31, 2025, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office received a report that a photo depicting nudity was shown to a child. The mother of the alleged victim made the report.
Judge Molly Owen set sentencing for Aug. 12.
ARTICLES BY JEFF SMITH
Ronan man charged with raping unconscious woman
A Ronan man is accused of raping a woman in a public park. Matthew Julian Michel, 38, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court Sept. 16 to felony sexual intercourse without consent.
Judge rejects plea deal, sentences Polson man to 15 years for child's death
A Polson man was sentenced Sept. 11 to the Montana State Prison for 15 years with seven years suspended for causing the death of a child.
Judge rejects plea agreement; sentences man to 15 years for child's death
A Polson man was sentenced Sept. 11 to the Montana State Prison for 15 years with seven years suspended for causing the death of a child.