$1M bail for man accused of child rape

COEUR d'ALENE — A Spirit Lake man accused of raping a child to whom he had provided drugs could face the death penalty, prosecutors said.

Bryce C. Workman, 20, is charged with rape, enticing a child and aggravated lewd conduct with a minor aged 12 or under, all felonies. 

In Idaho, aggravated lewd conduct with a minor aged 12 or under carries a possible penalty of life in prison or death. 

First District Judge Eileen McGovern ordered Thursday that Workman be held on $1 million bail, the amount recommended by prosecutors. McGovern said she was "very concerned" that Workman might fail to appear in court, given the seriousness of the charges. 

The charges stem from July 17, when Spirit Lake police responded to Newport Hospital for the reported rape of a 13-year-old child. 

The child told police that Workman first touched her inappropriately during the summer of 2025, when she was 12 years old, and he was 19 years old, according to court records. She said Workman's behavior escalated until he enticed her to smoke marijuana and then raped her. The child said the alleged sexual abuse continued for the next year. 

Workman allegedly told the child that it was important that he not be caught, according to court records. 

When interviewed by police, Workman allegedly admitted to having "sexual intercourse" with the child on one occasion when she was 13, according to court records. 

In court Thursday, prosecuting attorney Micah Murray called Workman's alleged behavior "egregious." He alleged that Workman raped the child dozens of times and noted that prosecutors could seek the death penalty in the case.

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.