Man sentenced in rape, kidnapping case

COEUR d'ALENE - A Coeur d'Alene man was sentenced Monday in Kootenai County District Court to serve 20 years to life in prison for the rape and kidnapping of a teenage relative.

Michael Nixon, 32, was arrested for the crimes - described by Judge Fred Gibler as "horrendous" - in July of 2013. When giving his sentence, Gibler cited the man's lack of a criminal history and said Nixon's actions were influenced by a difficult childhood and mental health issues.

But the fact that the teen victim is a relative indicates Nixon's conduct is unpredictable.

"It's not just about Mr. Nixon; the victim will undoubtedly be affected by this for the rest of her life," Gibler said. "Hopefully Mr. Nixon will be able to get treatment and parole. He poses a significant threat to the public - these are two very serious charges and this is an extraordinary case."

Prior to closing arguments, Nixon's older sister spoke through tears and described the family's history of homelessness and abuse. Throughout her testimony, Nixon was visibly shaking and kept his head down facing the courtroom table.

"He put his life together and was proud that he went to school and was able to make something of his life," his sister said of Nixon's time after serving in the military. "He was somebody I could count on. He's sick and needs help, but I still love him. What happened was not who he is."

By the time his sister finished her testimony, Nixon, who was wearing a red jumpsuit and had his long black hair in a small ponytail, was sobbing and had his head down on the table in the courtroom. It remained there throughout the sentencing.

During his closing arguments, Kootenai County Prosecutor Barry McHugh discussed the details of the criminal charges, and said Nixon admitted in investigative interviews that what he did was something he wanted to do for a considerable amount of time.

This desire was not just focused on the victim Nixon chose, McHugh said.

"It could have been anyone," McHugh said. "That will continue to cause Mr. Nixon to be a danger to others in the community for the rest of his life."

When recommending an indeterminate life sentence and 25 years of fixed time in prison, McHugh pointed out the violence Nixon inflicted on the victim in order to gain control. McHugh said the girl was choked and had her nose broken prior to being raped multiple times and was then duct-taped to a chair while Nixon left his home.

"The victim said he would go back and forth during this time from being 'Nice Michael' and a 'Monster,'" McHugh said.

When asked by Gibler if he would like to say anything to the court, Nixon struggled to lift his head and was shaking violently while attempting to make a statement.

"I can't even explain how terrible I feel," Nixon said. "I will do anything and everything I can to fix myself."

Nixon will be eligible for parole in 20 years.