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Lewiston Man Indicted on Child Sex Trafficking Charge
Nathan R. Penkert, 42, faces felony charge for alleged incident in July 2025
Published on Feb. 27, 2026
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A Nez Perce County grand jury has indicted a 42-year-old Lewiston man, Nathan R. Penkert, on a felony charge of human sex trafficking of a child. The indictment alleges that between July 22 and July 23, 2025, Penkert transported, enticed, recruited, harbored, and/or held a 16-year-old minor and knowingly caused the minor to engage in or become the victim of rape.
Why it matters
Human sex trafficking, especially of minors, is a serious crime that exploits the most vulnerable members of society. This indictment highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and the justice system to crack down on these heinous acts and protect children from predators.
The details
According to the redacted indictment filed on Feb. 24 in Idaho's Second Judicial District Court, Penkert is charged with one count of human sex trafficking of a child. He was arrested on Feb. 20, 2026 by the Lewiston Police Department and booked into the Nez Perce County Jail.
- The alleged incident occurred between July 22 and July 23, 2025.
- The indictment was presented in open court on Feb. 20, 2026.
- Penkert was arrested at 5 p.m. on Feb. 20, 2026.
The players
Nathan R. Penkert
A 42-year-old Lewiston man who has been indicted on a felony charge of human sex trafficking of a child.
Nez Perce County Grand Jury
The grand jury that determined there is probable cause to believe a crime was committed and indicted Penkert.
Lewiston Police Department
The law enforcement agency that arrested Penkert on the human sex trafficking charge.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Penkert's bail status at a hearing on March 1, 2026.
The takeaway
This case underscores the ongoing battle against the exploitation of minors and the critical role of law enforcement and the justice system in holding perpetrators accountable for these heinous crimes.
