Judge orders evaluation for batterer

In July 2008, less than two months after  Gerald Kittell beat his girlfriend nearly to death, he sent her a note from jail hoping for forgiveness and asking her to visit.

The note was included in a sympathy card, but was intercepted by Boundary County jail officials. It read, “Hope you come home soon.   I am praying for both of us my love.  I will love you no matter what.”

The note is part of what appears in Kittell’s file at the courthouse, where Tuesday’s sentencing was delayed until the Bonners Ferry man completes a psychiatric evaluation.

According to court records,  Kittell, who has a history of domestic violence, on May 26 hit, kicked and stomped on the victim, breaking her ribs and facial bones and caused

internal injuries, including a punctured lung.  The victim was initially in critical condition and on life support at Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur D’ Alene.

Kittell’s criminal history in Boundary County dates back to 1998 and includes charges of drunken driving in April 2006 and December 1998.  The 45-year-old was charged with battery in May 2006 and domestic violence, reduced to disturbing the peace in December 2005.

Dr. Carl Haugen will evaluate Kittell which was strongly recommended by both Kittell’s substance abuse and domestic violence evaluators.  A new sentencing date has not been scheduled and Kittell remains in custody at the Boundary County jail on a  $200,000  bond.

Kittell will be expected to follow Haugen’s medication and treatment recommendations.