In brief: Camp-raiding bear prompts closure

A popular camping area up the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River has been closed to public use because of a black bear that’s been raiding campsites and picnic areas.

Idaho Panhandle National Forests officials say the closure affects the Graham Creek area about 14 miles north of Interstate 90 and up the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River off Forest Highway 9.

Frequent bear encounters have been reported in the area, said Kimberly Johnson, Coeur d’Alene District deputy ranger.

“While most people are storing their food and trash properly, we have a situation that could potentially turn dangerous if the bear continues to return and becomes habituated to encounters with humans,” she said.

“By removing food and trash from the area, our goal is to protect both the visitors and the bears by discouraging the bears from returning.”

When camping in bear country keep a clean camp, secure food and trash in bear-proof containers or a vehicle at all times, and keep pets under control, she advised.

For updates on the closure, call the Coeur d’Alene River Ranger District in Fernan (208) 664-2318.

Staff reports

Police discover car, license plates stolen

An Elk man was arrested Thursday in Spokane Valley after authorities discovered the vehicle he was in was stolen.

Officers responded to the River Rock Apartments at 12700 E. Shannon Ave. about 10:30 a.m. for a report of a “suspicious male ducking down inside the parked Honda and smoking something,” said Spokane Valley police spokesman Sgt. Dave Reagan.

Officers contacted the car’s occupant and identified him as Christopher L. Dahlman, 20.

Dispatch notified officers the license plate on the back of the Honda was stolen off another vehicle, and when police ran the car’s identification number, they learned the car was stolen, as well. The car’s Montana plates were not located, Reagan said.

Reagan said Dahlman was nervous and claimed to have borrowed the car, but could not identify its actual owner and was arrested for possession of a stolen motor vehicle and booked into Spokane County Jail.

Chelsea Bannach