Polson man enters Alford plea for sexually assaulting minor
JEFF SMITH | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 2 weeks, 6 days AGO
Jeff Smith is news director for Anderson Broadcasting and a contributor to the Lake County Leader. | October 22, 2026 12:00 AM
A Polson man is accused of having inappropriate contact with a minor.
Gerald Raymond Beeks, 84, entered an Alford plea in Polson District Court Oct 14 to felony sexual assault. In an Alford plea, a defendant maintains his innocence but concedes that he would lose the case based on the state’s evidence.
The plea was entered as part of an agreement that calls for the state to recommend 10 years in the Montana State Prison with six years suspended. The defense can argue for any legal sentence.
According to court records, the alleged incident occurred at a Polson residence on July 24, 2023. The investigation began after Polson Police were notified of the alleged incident through the Montana Child Abuse Hotline.
Judge Molly Owen set sentencing for Dec. 2. Beeks remains at liberty.
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