Bond reduction denied in lewd conduct case

BONNERS FERRY — Bond reduction was denied for a Copeland man charged with sex crimes with children under 16.

Jason L. Williams, 65, is facing the two charges. The contact with two minors allegedly took place several years ago, possibly when the victims were as young as 5 years old.

On Feb. 22, Williams entered a plea agreement and is pleading guilty as a result of the agreement. As part of the agreement, the second count has been amended to sexual battery instead of lewd conduct with a minor under 16.

Williams is still charged with one county of lewd conduct with a minor under 16, which could result in a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a $50,000 fine. Sexual abuse of a minor, could result in a maximum sentence of 25 years with an additional $50,000 fine.

Court records state that sentencing recommendations are based on psychological evaluations.

On March 22, bond reduction was denied by Judge Lamont C. Berecz due to bond already being low considering the charges. Bond is still set at $20,000. Sentencing is scheduled for May 5.

In a probable cause affidavit from Oct. 2, 2022, Boundary County Sheriff Deputy Jason Trujillo said he received a call from a reporting party. One of the victims' mothers said that she had just been informed by her daughter that Williams had touched her inappropriately “a few years ago.”

She disclosed this information to her mother on July 24, 2022, because another girl had come forward alleging that Williams inappropriately touched her when she was younger.

In Idaho, there is no statute of limitations for cases involving the sexual abuse of minors. More information can be found at rainn.org or by calling 800-656-HOPE (4673). Local resources include Boundary County Victim Services at 208-267-5211, and Boundary County Sheriff’s Office at 208-267-3151. All agencies listed can be reached 24/7. BCVS is available to assist victims of all types of crime.