Idaho Falls, ID — A 3rd Judicial District judge has denied a request to release a man charged with sexual abuse of a child, citing concerns over a snow cone stand operated on his property that may have drawn other children to the home.
The defendant, whose name was not released in the hearing summary, is referred to as Crofts, and is currently facing charges stemming from alleged abuse involving two young girls.
Defense Request Denied Amid Safety Concerns
Crofts’ attorney, Briggs, had requested that the court release his client on his own recognizance, meaning without posting bond.
But Magistrate Judge J.R. Schiller denied that request, pointing to the ongoing operation of a snow cone stand at the residence — something that may pose a risk to other children in the community.
“He’s charged with sexual abuse of a child,” Judge Schiller said during the hearing. “Obviously the court has concerns when they’re then operating a stand at their home that would attract children to it, and I think the community has a right to be concerned about kids’ safety.”
Bond Set at $5,000
Judge Schiller ordered a $5,000 bond, meaning Crofts must post that amount to be released while awaiting further legal proceedings.
The next court appearance is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on September 3, where Crofts will face a hearing on the violation related to the alleged abuse.
Community Alarm Over Stand’s Operation
Though the charges relate specifically to two minors, the judge noted there’s no clear evidence whether other children may have also visited the home, raising broader public safety concerns.
The presence of the snow cone stand at the residence, while not illegal, was seen as especially troubling in light of the serious charges against Crofts.
As the case moves forward, local authorities and child advocacy groups are likely to monitor how situations like these are handled when public-facing businesses operated by alleged offenders potentially endanger others.
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