Transient who stabbed man in camp may serve 20 years

A man who stabbed another man in a transient camp in Coeur d’Alene last summer has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.
James H. Kountz, 56, stabbed James Hoglen, 43, last June during an argument at the camp near Wilbur Avenue and Highway 95. According to court documents, Hoglen said Kountz came after him with a knife and cut him in the face and then on his left side. Hoglen tried to defend himself by throwing a camp chair at Kountz, who said he was going to kill Hoglen.
Hoglen sustained a cut near his left eye and …

A man who stabbed another man in a transient camp in Coeur d’Alene last summer has been sentenced to 20 years in prison.

James H. Kountz, 56, stabbed James Hoglen, 43, last June during an argument at the camp near Wilbur Avenue and Highway 95. According to court documents, Hoglen said Kountz came after him with a knife and cut him in the face and then on his left side. Hoglen tried to defend himself by throwing a camp chair at Kountz, who said he was going to kill Hoglen.

Hoglen sustained a cut near his left eye and three injuries on his torso.

Kountz will be eligible for parole after four years, with credit for time served.

Kountz has a long criminal history that includes a conviction in California for involuntary manslaughter.