Man charged with assault

| October 13, 2006 9:00 PM

By ROBERT JAMES

Managing Editor

A 21-year-old former Bonners Ferry man is facing a felony charge in connection with an alleged assault on a 17-year-old girl July 27 in rural Boundary County.

Brian Davis, who now lives in Kootenai County, allegedly threw the victim into a bonfire at a party. Davis' action may have been racially motivated, according to a witness statement, as he allegedly said "Jews burn" before dropping the victim into the fire.

The victim, who is not Jewish, suffered second-degree burns on her arms, legs and feet.

The charges were brought after an investigation by the Boundary County Sheriff's Office, Sheriff Greg Sprungl said. The county prosecutor's office confirmed Davis had been charged with aggravated battery, a felony.

Davis faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

The victim's father said he was relieved that charges had finally been filed.