Sentencing set in molestation case

SANDPOINT — A Sandpoint man being held on a forcible rape charge is scheduled to be sentenced this fall in a separate case alleging he molested another teenager several years ago.

Dean Duane Stevens Jr. was scheduled to be sentenced in the molestation case in June, but the hearing was postponed so an unspecified mental health condition could be stabilized with medication, according to court documents.

While awaiting sentencing and free on reduced bail, Stevens was arrested on allegations he raped a 16-year-old girl at a remote cabin in Samuels in July. He was ordered earlier this month to stand trial on charges of rape, first-degree kidnapping, delivery of methamphetamine and possession of meth.

His arraignment on those charges is set for Oct. 5.

Stevens, 38, is being held at the Bonner County Jail in lieu of $500,000.

Stevens entered an Alford plea to a reduced charge of aggravated assault in the molestation case. Under such a plea, a defendant admits no wrongdoing, but concedes they could be convicted if the matter went to trial.

Stevens entered the plea in April, during his trial on a charge of lewd and lascivious conduct with a minor. The misconduct dated back to between 2004 and 2006, when the girl was between the ages of 14 and 15, according to charging papers.

Sentencing in that matter has been reset for Nov. 2.