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St. Maries man charged with rape

by KAYE THORNBRUGH
Staff Writer | August 3, 2024 1:00 AM

COEUR d’ALENE — A St. Maries man is in jail after police said he raped a teen girl.

Jonathan R. Cummins, 22, is charged with rape and sexual battery of a minor, both felonies. 

The charges stem from July 17, when a 16-year-old girl reported to police that Cummins raped her the night before, according to court records. 

The teen said she was recently acquainted with Cummins. Cummins allegedly provided alcohol to her. The teen said she fell asleep in her bedroom and woke to Cummins raping her. 

Multiple people in attendance that night told police they walked in on an unclothed Cummins in the teen’s bedroom and, upon learning he was 22 years old, told him to leave. 

When questioned by police, Cummins said the teen had propositioned him and he knew they had a sexual encounter but didn’t clearly remember what happened. He confirmed to police that the teen’s friends interrupted the encounter. 

In Idaho, a person aged 16 or 17 cannot consent to sex with a person more than three years older. 

Police obtained a $50,000 warrant for Cummins’ arrest July 30. He was arrested Thursday in Benewah County and transported to the Kootenai County jail. 

Under Idaho law, the crime of rape is punishable by a minimum of one year in prison and a maximum of life. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, call Safe Passage Violence Prevention Center’s 24-hour helpline: 208-664-9303.