Richard Cowell III and Katherine Cowell remain incarcerated in Bonner County following today’s preliminary hearing.
On February 6, 2025, the victim(s), two of the Cowell’s now adult children, came forward to law enforcement officer, Bonners Ferry City Police Chief, Willie Cowell; brother of Richard Cowell III, with allegations of sexual abuse. That same evening, after probable cause was established, both Cowells were taken into custody by the Boundary County Sheriff’s office.
At the preliminary hearing today at the Bonner County Courthouse, Judge Tera Harden heard the case. The court found sufficient evidence to bind the defendants over for trial.
The arraignment for both Richard and Katherine is set for Friday, April 4, 2025 at 9:30 a.m., at the Boundary County Courthouse before Judge Susie Jensen, where they will be formally advised of the charges against them and be given the opportunity to enter a plea.
Currently, there have been no charges filed regarding the Little Zookeeper Daycare that the Cowell’s owned.