Battery charge filed against grad

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint High School graduate who kissed the school’s principal during commencement last month has been charged with a misdemeanor.

Mike Martin Hewitt is charged with battery. The offense carries a maximum punishment of six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Idaho Code defines battery as any unwanted touching of another person against their will.

Hewitt, 18, admitted to attempting to kiss Becky Weller Kiebert on the lips while receiving his diploma on June 6 at Memorial Field, according to a Sandpoint Police report.

Kiebert, 42, told police that when Hewitt took the stage, he grabbed her by the arms and pulled her toward him. She attempted to dodge Hewitt’s pass by turning her head at the last moment, which caused the kiss to land on her cheek, the police report said.

Hewitt allegedly told an officer he was attempting to show his gratitude to Kiebert, but later admitted that he kissed Kiebert on a dare.

“Everyone bet me I wouldn’t do it,” Hewitt was quoted as a saying in the police report.

The report indicated Kiebert mulled her options for a day before deciding to seek a criminal charge against Hewitt.

Lake Pend Oreille School District officials are reportedly contemplating new procedures and policies designed to bridle inappropriate behavior during commencement ceremonies.