Orofino Man Denies Violent Sex Assault Allegations

Canaan M. Ortega pleaded not guilty to two felony charges in Nez Perce County court.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:05am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a single handcuff against a pitch-black background, conveying the serious and investigative nature of the crime.A stark, gritty close-up of physical evidence highlights the gravity of the allegations in this case.Lewiston Today

A 19-year-old Orofino man has denied allegations that he raped and attempted to strangle a woman in her Lewiston home last fall. Canaan M. Ortega pleaded not guilty to two felony charges in Nez Perce County Second District Court on Thursday morning.

Why it matters

Sexual assault allegations are serious and can have significant legal and personal consequences for all involved. This case highlights the importance of due process and the presumption of innocence in the criminal justice system.

The details

Ortega was arrested in November after a woman told Lewiston police she was violently assaulted in September and identified Ortega as the suspect. He has now pleaded not guilty to the two felony charges against him.

  • Ortega was arrested in November 2025.
  • The alleged assault occurred in September 2025.

The players

Canaan M. Ortega

A 19-year-old Orofino man who has pleaded not guilty to two felony charges related to a violent sexual assault allegation.

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What’s next

Ortega's case will now proceed through the legal system as he contests the charges against him.

The takeaway

This case underscores the complexities of sexual assault allegations and the need for a fair and thorough judicial process to determine the facts and ensure justice is served.