19-Year-Old Charged With Lewd Conduct, Sexual Abuse, and Kidnapping of Minors

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A 19-year-old man named Deacon J. McMurray has been charged in Nez Perce County, Idaho with multiple felony offenses involving minor girls, including lewd conduct with a child under sixteen, two counts of second-degree kidnapping, and sexual abuse of a child under sixteen. The charges stem from allegations that McMurray communicated with underage girls through Snapchat, sometimes misrepresenting his age, and met up with two girls under the age of 15 in Lewiston, where inappropriate contact allegedly occurred.

Why it matters

The case highlights the risks that underage children can face from online predators who may try to exploit and abuse them. It also raises concerns about the potential vulnerabilities of minors to manipulation and coercion, especially through social media platforms. The charges against McMurray could result in significant prison time if he is convicted.

The details

According to court documents, investigators obtained search warrants for Deacon J. McMurray's Snapchat records, which included messages, location data, and account activity spanning several months. The affidavit alleges that McMurray communicated with underage girls through the social media platform and, in some instances, misrepresented his age. Investigators state he was 19 at the time of the alleged incidents. The affidavit further alleges that McMurray met in person with two girls in Lewiston, both under the age of 15, and that inappropriate contact occurred during an encounter in a vehicle at a Lewiston park. A witness reportedly observed McMurray and one of the juveniles inside the vehicle.

• On February 17, 2026, Deacon J. McMurray was arrested.
• McMurray is expected to make his initial court appearance on Wednesday, February 19, 2026.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Wednesday whether or not to allow Deacon J. McMurray out on bail.