PR man arrested for elder abuse

PRIEST RIVER — An unemployed Priest River man was arrested Sunday for allegedly attacking a 74-year-old woman who was unable to purchase him cigarettes or give him money.

William Porter Rice III is charged with abuse and exploitation of a vulnerable adult and battery. Both charges are being prosecuted at the misdemeanor level, court records show.

Priest River Police were summoned to the woman’s home after Rice reportedly pushed and spat in her face. Rice is also accused of throwing his drink in the woman’s face, according to a probable cause affidavit.

The alleged victim told police Rice berated her for not managing her money better and accused her of having dementia, the affidavit said. The woman said Rice wanted her to buy a carton of cigarettes, in addition to giving him money for gas and an upcoming court hearing.

Rice, 37, admitted getting into a shoving match with the woman and said he threw his drink toward her, according to the affidavit.

Officer Tanner Bodie concluded that Rice was causing her mental and physical harm.

“Rice was also displaying exploitation of (the alleged vicitm) by demanding property or resources for profit and advantage.” Bodie said in the affidavit.

Bodie also concluded that Rice’s claim that the woman was suffering from dementia was unfounded, court records indicate.

Rice made an initial appearance in Bonner County Magistrate Court on Monday via videoconferencing with the jail. However, information about bail and the appointment of counsel was not noted in available court records.

Keith Kinnaird can be reached by email at kkinnaird@bonnercountydailybee.com and follow him on Twitter @KeithDailyBee.