Man imprisoned for domestic battery

COEUR d’ALENE — A man who pleaded guilty to battering a woman and then absconded before receiving his sentence will spend time in prison, according to the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

Derick W. Brunke, 37, pleaded guilty last September to domestic battery and possession of marijuana. 

First District Judge Ross Pittman sentenced Brunke to 10 years in prison, the maximum possible sentence, with parole eligibility after five years. 

The charges stemmed from July 3, 2024, when prosecutors said Brunke punched and choked a woman, injuring her. When the woman fled on foot, Brunke followed her on a motorized scooter to a convenience store, according to prosecutors. 

The woman barricaded herself inside the store’s bathroom while an employee called 911. Responding officers found Brunke outside the residence and found marijuana in his pocket after arresting him, prosecutors said. 

After Brunke pleaded guilty to the charges, he was released from jail pending sentencing, having spent more than two months in jail. He failed to appear for sentencing in late February, according to prosecutors, and a judge issued a bench warrant for his arrest. Brunke was located and arrested nearly six months later. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual abuse, reach Safe Passage 24/7 by calling 208-664-9303 or texting 208-449-7228.