By Katie Banning and Mike Weland
The preliminary hearing that was scheduled today for Richard and Katherine Cowell was continued. Richard and Katherine waived their rights to a speedy preliminary hearing and it was re-scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Monday, March 17.
Meanwhile, on February 14, Bonner County Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Sarah Hyde amended both their criminal complaints, charging Katherine, 51, with a second count of lewd conduct with a minor under 16, another girl between the ages of 14 and 16 between the years of 2013 and 2016, specifically for penetrating her vagina with a foreign object.
If convicted, she faces up to life in prison and/or up to a $50,000 fine for each count.
Her husband, Richard Cowell III, 54, in addition to the initial charge of conspiracy to commit lewd conduct with a child under 16, now facees an additional charge
of rape where victim is under 16 for molesting the same child, allegedly penetrating her sexually when the child was between 13 and 16 years old.
He faces life in prison and/or a fine of up to $50,000 on count 1 and one year to life and/or up to $50,000 in fines for rape.
The two ran Little Zoo Keeper Day Care from their home at the top of Peterson Hill.
If you believe a child may be a victim of a sexual offense in Boundary County, or if you have any information related to this investigation, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please contact the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office at (208) 267-3151.
“‘The safety and well-being of children in Boundary County is our utmost priority,’ said Boundary County Sheriff Travis Stolley. ‘We understand that these situations are incredibly sensitive and that children may be afraid to come forward. We are committed to thoroughly investigating these reports and holding those responsible accountable. We want to assure anyone who has been affected that they will be treated with respect and compassion.’”
If you suspect child abuse or neglect, please contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Child Protective Services at State intake number at 1-855-552-5437. The National Sexual Assault Hotline is also available 24/7 at 800-656-HOPE. The National Child Abuse Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453.
Additionally, Boundary County Victims Services is available 24 hours a day at (208) 267-5211.