Charge raises many questions

As a concerned citizen of Bonner County I have a few questions regarding the “Man charged with rape” article (Daily Bee, Nov. 5, 2024). I think we are all for legal immigration and hard-working people coming to our county. New families and friends are welcome when they arrive legally and assimilate into our country as law-abiding citizens. Do we, as citizens of Bonner County, have the right to ask city and county officials:

What is the immigration status of all suspect(s)? The article mentioned Border Patrol was involved in determining their status. Why isn’t this known before arriving in our community?

Who is sponsoring (paying) and planning for these individuals to be moved into Sandpoint?

Where are these individuals being housed in our community? Now that there has been a sexual assault, do we have a right to know if they are living near schools, care facilities or other vulnerable populations?

What will be the continued impact on services, schools, city/county funds and safety as populations are transported into the area in higher numbers?

Witnesses say there were at least two vanloads of non-English speaking “newcomers” dropped off at Walmart recently. Who is responsible for these transports?

We are a small rural community. Honesty and transparency would help residents (especially women) rest a little easier and would be appreciated.

MARK ROWE

Laclede