Libby man in incest case released on own recognizance
Paul Sievers/The Western News Christopher M. Haines appears in district court before Judge Michael Prezeau on Monday in Libby.
The Western News
In a move to avoid trial, a 26-year-old Libby man accused of incest changed his plea to guilty on Monday morning while appearing before district court judge Michael Prezeau.
Christopher M. Haines and attorney William Douglas presented a plea agreement to the judge. Prezeau said he would not accept a plea agreement on a deferred sentence in the case.
Haines is accused of having sexual contact with his 5-year-old son between June 1 and Aug. 1 this year. The mother and child do not live in Libby.
Haines was released on his own recognizance in connection with various conditions. Douglas told the judge that he did not feel Haines was a danger to anyone or a threat to flee. Prosecutor Bernie Cassidy did not oppose his release.
Among the conditions, Haines will live with his parents in Libby at a residence in the 700 block of West Second Street. He is not allowed any contact with his son or any other child. He also will undergo treatment with a local doctor.
The maximum penalty that Haines could face includes a prison term of up to 100 years, a fine of up to $50,000, or both.