Trial set in lewd case

SANDPOINT — A Washington state man is set to stand trial Monday on allegations he molested a Bonner County girl four years ago.

The state and defense advised 1st District Judge Steve Verby Thursday that both sides were ready to proceed in Mark Richard Boncz’s case.

A grand jury indicted Boncz on a charge of lewd and lascivious conduct in April. Grand jurors concluded there was sufficient evidence to justify trying Boncz on allegations he molested the 5-year-old old girl in 2005. The trial could last up to three days.

Boncz, 54, of Newport, has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he could be imprisoned for life. Boncz remains held at the Bonner County Jail with bail set at $100,000.

Boncz was originally scheduled to be tried in September, but it was put off so materials related to a defense alibi could be reviewed.

The alleged victim in the case and her mother testified during the grand jury proceedings, although the testimony remains sealed.

Boncz was convicted of sexual abuse of an 8-year-old girl in 1987 and ordered to serve up to five years in prison.