Burglar, rapist sent to prison

A Bonners Ferry man, who has been in jail for 10 months, will spend at least six more months behind bars for a Moyie Springs burglary and rape of a teen.

Judge Steven Verby gave Ed Perez, 19, six months at North Idaho Correctional Institution in Cottonwood. Perez will be given the chance to attend programs and counseling.

After six months, a judge will review his performance while in custody.  If the outcome is positive, then the judge can give him probation. If Perez does show progress the judge can impose a four- to seven-year prison sentence.

Perez admitted to helping rob a man at his Moyie Springs home on Jan. 7, 2009. While out on bond, Perez was arrested for having sex with a 13-year- old girl on April 2.  He admitted to rape.

Several family members testified about Perez’s character during his sentencing.

Perez’s older brother, friends and mother, Kimberly Studer, testified that Perez has a big heart and had a difficult childhood.

“I have four boys, and he (Perez) has always been very respectful, loving and considerate,” Studer said. 

The rape victim was not in court nor were any of her family members. The victim provided a written statement to the court, and Verby read part of it.

“I always thought of Ed like an older brother and could talk to him easily,” the victim wrote. “Now I am resented by a lot of people because of him (Perez). I didn’t think alcohol should be used as an excuse for his actions.”