Deputy Faces Trespassing Charges

A Latah County sheriff’s deputy has been charged with three counts of criminal trespassing for allegedly damaging a woman’s undeveloped property near Deary.

An Aug. 1 preliminary hearing is scheduled for Deputy Mike Conolly, who faces up to six months in jail and a $300 fine on each count if convicted.

Conolly is accused of trespassing on Marjorie Emerson’s fenced property in early May, taking soil from adjacent land and using it to knock down the fence and damaging young trees.

There also was some damage done to the doors and hood of a truck parked on the property, according to court documents.

“My understanding of the evidence is that it is quite conflicting,” defense attorney Mark Moorer said. “We might see a justification in the nature of the offense here.”

Latah County Sheriff Jeff Crouch said the Idaho Bureau of Investigation checked into the allegations before charges were filed. Conolly - a 12-year veteran deputy - has continued his duties.

, DataTimes