Former University of Idaho student Jesse Vierstra, 21, was released on bail Nov. 8 from Latah County Jail. His bond was set at $125,000, after his defense attorney Ben Onosko asked to reduce it to $5,000 during both the preliminary and pre-trial hearings earlier in the semester. Latah County Magistrate John Judge denied Onosko’s request during the preliminary hearing and described Vierstra’s alleged behavior as “predatory.” Second District Court Judge Carl B. Kerrick upheld Vierstra’s bond at the pre-trial hearing, citing Judge’s reasoning.
Vierstra was charged with rape stemming from an incident Homecoming weekend when he visited Moscow and attended a Sigma Chi party. He has pled not guilty to the charge and faces life in prison if convicted.
Ten percent of Vierstra’s bond, $12,500, was paid by Susan Parnell from Twin Falls using Parnell’s property as collateral. His trial is scheduled for Jan. 28.