Victim's family grateful to authorities

SANDPOINT - The victim in a lewd and lascivious conduct case expressed gratitude last week for authorities' help in gaining a conviction.

The 13-year-old girl, whose name is being withheld because of the Bonner County Daily Bee's policy not to identify victims in sexual abuse cases, thanked Bonner Sheriff's Detective Phil Stella and Prosecutor Louis Marshall for their efforts in the case against James LeMar Parton, who was convicted July 16 of molesting her in 2012 and 2013.

"It was never easy for me to talk about what happened to me with anyone, but when I saw how many people were out there to help me, I was grateful that I could share parts of my story with them," the girl said July 17.

The girl's mother was also grateful for the assistance of Stella and Marshall.

"Louis and Detective Stella are our heroes. I really want them to know they brightened our future," the girl's mother said.

The mother praised Stella's demeanor and compassion, which she credited with getting her daughter to open up about the abuse she suffered when she was between the ages of 11 and 12.

She was also proud of the strength her daughter showed during the lengthy investigation and the three-day proceeding in 1st District Court.

"She went in there to show that she's not weak, because that's what he expected her to do," the mother said.

Both the mother and Marshall thanked the Guardians of the Children Inland Northwest chapter, which accompanied the girl and her mother throughout the trial.

The international motorcycle club seeks to educate the public about child abuse and create a safe environment for those who are abused and neglected.

"They handled the situation in a professional dignified manner and provided enormous support to the victim throughout the trial," Marshall said.

'Town Cryer,' a member of the Guardian chapter, said she was pleased with the jury's verdict.

"We're just there for the kids," she added.

Guardian members do not disclose their real names to prevent retaliation for the work they do.

Marshall was also proud of the victim.

"She is the true hero. I'm just glad I could be there to help her tell her story and for jury who saw through the charade Mr. Parton tried to portray as truth," said Marshall.

Parton, 48, is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 26. He remains jailed while the hearing is pending.

Parton pleaded not guilty and invoked his right to remain silent during the trial.

Parton's defense counsel, Jeremy Featherston, said an appeal is being contemplated, but had no further comment.