Clarkston Man Charged with Lewd Conduct Against Child

Prosecutors allege multiple victims in Nez Perce County case

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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A 48-year-old Clarkston man named Matthew K. Hosking has been charged in Nez Perce County, Idaho with lewd conduct with a child under sixteen, a felony. Court documents allege that in 2013, Hosking engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with a 5 or 6-year-old girl, and that additional alleged victims have since come forward.

Why it matters

This case highlights the serious nature of alleged child sexual abuse crimes and the potential for long prison sentences. It also raises concerns about whether there may be additional undiscovered victims given the multiple allegations that have surfaced during the investigation.

The details

According to the court affidavit, the initial alleged victim reported the accusations to law enforcement on December 11, 2025. Hosking, who has previous law enforcement experience, denied the allegations and claimed the accusations were fabricated. Prosecutors have recommended a $1 million bond, citing the severity of the charge, Hosking's background, and concerns that he may be a flight risk, though the judge set bond at $500,000.

  • In the spring of 2013, the initial alleged incident occurred.
  • On December 11, 2025, the alleged victim reported the accusations to law enforcement.
  • On Wednesday, Hosking was arrested in Lewiston.
  • On Thursday, Hosking made his initial court appearance.

The players

Matthew K. Hosking

A 48-year-old Clarkston man who has been charged with lewd conduct with a child under sixteen, a felony.

Judge Karin Seubert

The judge who set Hosking's bond at $500,000, despite prosecutors' recommendation of $1 million.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the serious nature of alleged child sexual abuse crimes and the potential for long prison sentences. It also raises concerns about whether there may be additional undiscovered victims given the multiple allegations that have surfaced during the investigation.