Russell bound over for first-degree murder

SANDPOINT — A Bonner County man was bound over to First District Court for a count of first-degree murder on Monday.

James David Russell, 40, was bound over on the charge for the death of David M. Flaget on Sept. 10, 2021.

However, First District Magistrate Judge Tera A. Harden did not find enough evidence to bind Russell over for a count of cannibalism.

The Oldtown resident was initially charged with first-degree murder shortly after Flaget's murder. Bonner County Prosecutor Louis Marshall filed an amended criminal complaint in mid-December charging Russell with cannibalism in relation to the murder. The complaint noted that various pieces of evidence suggesting cannibalism were discovered by sheriff’s deputies including a bloodied microwave, and portions of flesh found within, and outside of, the building where Russell would stay.

Arraignment is scheduled for June 21.